While it's generally frowned upon to play video games at work (unless you're in the gaming industry), sometimes a quick gaming session is the best way to relieve stress. Or maybe your job requires you to wait for something, and you just need to be ready for the next call.
Choose Your Games Wisely
Step 1. Pick 2 or 3 games that will help you relax but won't consume all your attention.
Choose 2 or 3 games that will help you unwind but won't take up all your focus. If you genuinely believe you won't be able to pull yourself away from "World of Warcraft" during a busy workday, make sure that's a game you only play at home. Other good options are games that don't require sound and use minimal memory.
Step 2. If you choose an online game, ensure it's virus-free.
If you opt for an online game, make sure it's free from viruses. You definitely don't want to install a game that could end up wiping out your entire work database. Scan each game with antivirus software.
Step 3. Review the game's content and description.
Check the game's content and description. Even if you don't want to get caught playing games at work, you certainly don't want to be caught playing inappropriate games with violent or pornographic scenes.
Transfer Games to a USB Drive
Step 1. Visit the website of the chosen game.
Go to the website of the chosen game. Right-click on the page to view the source, and if you're on a Mac, click the "View" menu and then select "View Source" from the dropdown.
Step 2. Type “.swf” to locate the line containing “HTML.”
Type “.swf” to find the line containing “HTML.” This way, you'll locate the “URL.”
Step 3. Copy and paste the “URL” into your browser window, then hit “Enter” to download the “.swf” file to your browser.
Step 4. Save the “URL” to your USB drive.
Save the “URL” to your USB drive. Make sure your USB drive has enough space to store three games.
Step 5. Put the USB drive in your bag or backpack to bring the games with you the next day.
Test the Games on Your Work Computer
Step 1. Plug the USB drive into an available USB port on your computer.
Insert the USB drive into an available USB port on your computer. Open the “.swf” file using your work computer's browser. Don’t forget to check your boss's schedule for the day, as it's best to play when you know they won’t be around. Wait until they step out for lunch or important meetings.
Step 2. Verify that each game runs properly on your computer.
Ensure that each game works correctly on your computer. Some companies limit access to video game files on office computers.
Step 3. Close all open games and store your USB drive in a drawer or a discreet location.
Close all open games and put your USB drive in a drawer or another hidden place. You don’t want the game to suddenly appear on your computer screen during a work report presentation. Also, beware of curious coworkers who might notice a USB drive sticking out of your computer.
Play Games at Work
Step 1. Mute your work computer's sound.
Mute your work computer's sound. Test the sound using a standard sound-producing operation. If you don’t hear anything, you’re ready to move to the next step.
Step 2. Check your boss's schedule to know exactly when they won’t be in the office.
Step 3. Insert the USB drive into the computer and open the game.
Plug the USB drive into the computer and open the game. Once the game launches, don't start playing just yet; minimize the window first.
Step 4. Open a work document.
Open a work document. Find the spreadsheet you need to fill out or another work-related document. This window should always be open.
Step 5. Set a timer on your watch or computer to avoid getting too caught up in the game.
Set a timer on your watch or computer to prevent getting too absorbed in the game. Allow yourself to play for no more than 10-15 minutes at a time.
Step 6. Reopen the game and continue playing.
Reopen the game and keep playing. Always be ready to switch back to your work document if a curious coworker walks by.
Take Your Games Home at the End of the Workday
Step 1. Eliminate any evidence of your gaming activities at work.
Remove any traces of your gaming activities at work. Check your browser history and clear it of any game site links.
Step 2. Safely eject the USB drive from your computer.
Eject the USB drive from your computer. If you forget it in the computer, you risk getting caught.
Step 3. Put the USB drive in your bag, pocket, or backpack.
Place the USB drive in your bag, pocket, or backpack. Make sure to take the drive with you.
