LinkedIn has games now?

LinkedIn, the platform synonymous with professional networking and job hunting, now has games!

Launched last month, LinkedIn Games offers three puzzles to test your mental agility: Queens, Crossclimb, and Pinpoint. Each one is designed to be a quick, daily dose of fun, and here's the best part: they're all free!

But, why games on LinkedIn? According to LinkedIn VP Daniel Roth, the aim is to provide users with a stimulating mental break while keeping them engaged on the platform. Let's face it, scrolling through endless updates can get tiring.  These games offer a welcome distraction and a chance to sharpen your mind.

LinkedIn is starting out with three games – Crossclimb, Pinpoint, and Queens. Users will be able to access these games through the News module on their LinkedIn homepage or by going directly to the games through their respective links.

So, what are these games like?

Queens: This one puts a twist on Sudoku, challenging you to arrange crowns in a specific pattern within a time limit. Out of the three games, this one can get particularly frustrating.

Crossclimb: This game presents you with clues that lead to interconnected words on a grid. Think of it as a brain teaser that tests your vocabulary and problem-solving skills. This game is perfect for all word nerds!

Pinpoint: This game is reminiscent of the popular New York Times’ “Connections” game. It challenges you to find the connections between seemingly unrelated words, flexing your deductive reasoning and cognitive muscles.

While all three games are a welcome addition, Pinpoint is the one that stands out for me. It's the perfect blend of challenging and engaging. You don't need to be a vocabulary wiz to enjoy it, but it definitely gets your brain working in a different way.

These are just the first three games on the platform, and it will be interesting to see if LinkedIn adds more based on user feedback.  One thing's for sure, LinkedIn is taking a step towards making the platform more engaging, and that can only be a good thing for users.

So, the next time you're on LinkedIn, take a break from crafting the perfect resume, and give your brain a workout with these new games. You might just surprise yourself with your hidden talents – and who knows, you might even spark a conversation with a fellow gamer in your network!