Linking to free games sites in exchange for using their games

Are they "bad neighbours"?

[marvin]

Hi

I've seen some "free flash games" which would fit well with the content on my site and am considering adding some of them. In order to add the games I would need to place a link back to the website which made the games.

However, I'm concerned that doing this might put my site in a "bad neighborhood". Does Google see free game providers as bad neighbors?

My site has nothing to do with games so technically I am linking to an unrelated site. However, as the games are in keeping with the theme of my content and pretty addictive they might attract some repeat visitors.

Are there any other potential negative consequences I should consider?

Marvin

[tedster]

I don't think there's a one-size-fits-all rule, but I do think you're correct to be wary. You'll need to research the sites involved to be sure that you really want to link to them - check their code and their backlinks, and make sure it all looks clean.