The Evolution of Social Networking: From SNS to Fortnite

The Evolution of Social Networking: From SNS to Fortnite

Introduction:
In this article, we will explore the evolution of social networking, starting from the concept of antithesis to existing SNS platforms like Facebook and Snapchat. We will delve into the power of presence and how it has shaped the way we connect with others in the digital age. Additionally, we will discuss the rise of Fortnite and its potential to surpass Facebook in the future. By examining these two seemingly unrelated topics, we can uncover common points and gain unique insights into the future of social networking.

The Power of Presence:
One of the key driving forces behind the success of social networking platforms is the desire for approval and validation. However, beyond fulfilling this need, the concept of presence has played a significant role. When we interact with others on social media, we not only seek recognition but also the feeling of being present in each other's lives. This is where virtual reality (VR) platforms like Fortnite have the potential to shine. VR offers a space where users can experience a sense of presence, as if they are truly together with others. This presents an exciting opportunity for the future of social networking.

Reimagining Social Networking:
Traditionally, social networking has focused on connecting people through apps and profiles. However, the true essence of social interaction lies in the physical presence of friends and the shared experiences that follow. To create a more authentic social networking experience, we should prioritize meeting friends in the same physical space and then decide which apps or activities to engage in together. By emphasizing the feeling of presence, we can ensure that users feel a genuine connection and find the platform appealing.

The Rise of Fortnite:
Interestingly, many users who identify as "荒野女子" (wilderness girls) were previously not interested in gaming. These girls were dissatisfied with the performative nature of social media, where posting photos for approval deviated from the true essence of social connection. In contrast, platforms like Fortnite offer a more social experience, where friends can engage in various activities together. The social aspect of Fortnite surpasses that of Instagram, where the focus is on garnering likes through photo posts. This highlights the shift towards more genuine and interactive forms of social networking.

People First Approach:
The concept of "アプリFirst" (App First) refers to individual apps functioning independently, while "People First" emphasizes meeting friends first and then engaging in a variety of experiences together. When it comes to playing games online with friends, the difference between hastily designed mini-games by SNS companies and meticulously crafted games with high quality becomes evident. The People First approach fosters a stronger sense of connection and offers a more immersive social experience.

The Future of Social Networking:
Looking ahead, the future of social networking lies in creating platforms that prioritize presence and genuine interactions. As users become more discerning, they will gravitate towards services that offer a strong sense of presence. While VR platforms like Fortnite excel in this aspect, it is important to acknowledge that existing social networking platforms also possess elements of presence. By recognizing the importance of presence and incorporating it into social networking experiences, we can create more appealing and engaging platforms for users.

Actionable Advice:

1. Emphasize presence: When designing social networking platforms, prioritize creating a sense of presence among users. This can be achieved through VR technology or by fostering genuine connections through shared experiences.
2. Foster authentic interactions: Encourage users to meet in person before engaging in activities or using apps together. This will foster more genuine and meaningful connections.
3. Continuously innovate: Stay ahead of the competition by consistently improving and enhancing the social networking experience. Listen to user feedback and adapt to changing trends to ensure continued success.

Conclusion:
The evolution of social networking from traditional SNS platforms to immersive experiences like Fortnite reflects the human need for genuine connections and a sense of presence. As we move forward, it is crucial to prioritize these aspects when designing social networking platforms. By incorporating presence and fostering authentic interactions, we can create a more engaging and fulfilling social networking experience for users.