Amid the surge of gaming integration into mainstream platforms like Netflix (NASDAQ:NFLX), LinkedIn, with over 1 billion users, reportedly plans to venture into the lucrative gaming market. According to reports from TechCrunch, the professional networking platform is developing new gaming experiences.
Early prototypes include games titled “Queens,” “Inference,” and “Crossclimb.” While there’s no official launch date yet, a spokesperson from LinkedIn confirmed their exploration into gaming.
“We’re experimenting with incorporating puzzle-based games into the LinkedIn platform to introduce some enjoyment, strengthen connections, and hopefully stimulate conversations,” stated the spokesperson.
App researcher Nima Owji noted LinkedIn’s apparent experimentation with gaming. However, LinkedIn did not disclose Microsoft’s (NASDAQ:MSFT) involvement in the project.
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Microsoft’s gaming segment, encompassing Xbox and Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ:ATVI), generated $7.1 billion in revenue last quarter. The acquisition of gaming giant Activision Blizzard, finalized on October 13, 2023, significantly influenced this growth.
In the same quarter, Xbox content and services revenue saw a remarkable 61% increase, driven by a 55-point net impact from the Activision acquisition. Microsoft reported a net revenue impact exceeding $2 billion from the Activision Blizzard deal.
Nevertheless, Microsoft faced scrutiny after laying off 1,900 employees from its gaming division in January, primarily affecting Activision Blizzard staff.