"The Future of Social Networking: How Games Could Overtake Existing SNS Platforms"

"The Future of Social Networking: How Games Could Overtake Existing SNS Platforms"

In today's digital age, social networking has become an integral part of our lives. We connect with friends, share our thoughts and experiences, and stay updated on the latest trends and news. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LINE have dominated the SNS landscape, but could there be a new contender on the horizon? In this article, we will explore the potential of games, specifically Fortnite, to surpass the popularity and impact of existing SNS platforms.

One crucial element that determines the success of any service is the sense of presence it provides. Users want to feel connected and engaged with the platform they use. While virtual reality maximizes this sense of presence, even traditional SNS platforms have managed to incorporate it to some extent. For instance, LINE's former CEO highlighted the importance of features like read receipts, as they create a shared space where users can interact with one another.

However, presence alone is not enough to captivate users. This is where games come into play. Games offer a highly immersive and entertaining experience that goes beyond simple social interactions. They provide a platform for people to engage in shared activities, creating a high-quality form of entertainment. The founders of Houseparty, for example, recognized that the performative nature of platforms like Facebook and Instagram, where users strive for approval through staged photos, deviated from genuine social experiences. They believed that true social interaction should be more private and personal.

The trend of accessing multiple apps from a single platform has gained traction in recent years. This shift towards unified access could potentially facilitate the rise of games as a dominant social networking platform. Games offer a wide range of activities that can be enjoyed together, making them an appealing alternative to traditional SNS platforms.

Looking ahead, the next decade may witness games transforming into a major social networking platform that surpasses existing SNS platforms. The success of Fortnite, with its engaging gameplay, interactive features, and strong community, showcases the potential of games to redefine the social networking landscape. As users seek more meaningful and immersive experiences, games have the opportunity to provide a new level of connection and entertainment.

To conclude, here are three actionable pieces of advice for product leaders and developers in the social networking industry:

• 1. Emphasize presence: Incorporate features that enhance the sense of presence and connection among users. Whether through virtual reality or other means, find ways to make users feel like they are truly engaged with one another.

• 2. Foster shared experiences: Recognize the importance of shared activities and provide opportunities for users to enjoy them together. Games offer an ideal platform for creating interactive and immersive experiences that can forge stronger social connections.

• 3. Prioritize privacy and authenticity: Deviate from the performative nature of existing SNS platforms and focus on creating a more private and personal space for users to interact. Encourage genuine connections and meaningful interactions.

In conclusion, the future of social networking may lie in the realm of games. As users seek more immersive experiences and meaningful connections, games have the potential to surpass existing SNS platforms and become the next dominant force in the industry. By emphasizing presence, fostering shared experiences, and prioritizing privacy and authenticity, product leaders can position themselves at the forefront of this transformative shift in social networking.