The Future of Social Networking: Combining Presence and Gaming

The Future of Social Networking: Combining Presence and Gaming

In recent years, the way we interact with social networking services (SNS) has evolved significantly. The concept of presence, the feeling of being connected or having a sense of someone's existence, plays a crucial role in the success of these platforms. While virtual reality (VR) maximizes presence by creating the illusion of being physically present, even traditional SNS platforms have found ways to incorporate this element.

For instance, LINE, a popular messaging app, considers the "read" notification as a form of presence. It allows users to know when their messages have been seen by others, creating a shared space where everyone is aware of each other's presence. This example highlights the importance of presence in SNS platforms, but it also reveals that it's not the only aspect that users seek.

In recent years, there has been a trend towards consolidating various applications into a single platform for seamless access. This movement recognizes the need for a unified experience across different services. However, while presence is essential, engaging in shared activities is equally crucial. This is where gaming comes into play.

Games have the potential to provide high-quality entertainment and foster shared experiences. The founders of Houseparty, a social networking app, expressed their concerns about the performative nature of platforms like Facebook and Instagram. They felt that the need for validation through staged performances, such as posting photos, deviates from the genuine social interactions that should take place between friends. According to their perspective, social interactions should be more private and personal, rather than being performed for a public audience.

Looking ahead, the next decade may witness the rise of gaming as a dominant platform that surpasses traditional SNS. Gaming not only offers a high-quality entertainment experience but also facilitates shared activities and deeper connections between users. Combining the elements of presence and shared experiences, gaming platforms have the potential to redefine social networking and create a new era of connectedness.

To leverage this potential, here are three actionable pieces of advice for developers and entrepreneurs in the social networking and gaming industry:

1. Emphasize shared experiences: Focus on creating games that encourage users to engage with each other and foster meaningful connections. Allow for collaborative gameplay or activities that require teamwork, strengthening the sense of community within the gaming platform.

2. Personalization and privacy: Recognize the desire for more private and intimate social interactions. Give users control over their privacy settings and offer personalized experiences that cater to their individual preferences. This will help create a sense of comfort and trust within the gaming community.

3. Cross-platform integration: Facilitate seamless integration between different gaming platforms and SNS services. This will enable users to connect and interact with their friends across various games and SNS platforms, further enhancing the shared experience and sense of presence.

In conclusion, the future of social networking lies in the combination of presence and gaming. While presence is a vital element, it is not enough on its own. By incorporating gaming into SNS platforms, developers can provide high-quality entertainment and foster shared experiences, redefining the way we connect and interact with others in the digital world.