The Evolution of Social Networking: From SNS History to the Potential of Fortnite

The Evolution of Social Networking: From SNS History to the Potential of Fortnite

Introduction:
In a world where social media platforms dominate our daily lives, it's interesting to explore the origins and philosophies behind these platforms. This article delves into the history of social networking sites (SNS) and examines the rise of Fortnite, a game that has the potential to surpass Facebook's influence. By examining the common points between these two phenomena, we can gain insights into the future of social media and the role of virtual reality (VR) in reshaping our digital interactions.

The Antithesis of Existing SNS:
Snapchat, like Fortnite, was created as an antithesis to existing SNS platforms. Both platforms aimed to offer something different, challenging the status quo. While traditional platforms focused on the approval-seeking aspect of "likes," Snapchat introduced the concept of presence. It allowed users to feel like they were in the same space as their friends, creating a more immersive social experience.

The App-Centric World:
Our smartphones are built around apps, rather than human interactions. When we take out our smartphones, we see a grid of various apps, which is fundamentally different from how we perceive and cognize the real world. This is where VR has the potential to shine as a platform that prioritizes people. VR offers a sense of presence, making users feel like they are in the same space as others. Instead of focusing on which app to use, VR emphasizes meeting friends in a shared space first, and then deciding what to do together.

The Importance of Presence:
Without a sense of presence, people lose interest in a service and find it less appealing. While VR maximizes the feeling of presence, traditional SNS platforms also offer elements of it. Fortnite, for instance, creates a space where players can interact and feel the presence of others. Similarly, Instagram may have evolved into a platform where people post photos to seek approval, but Houseparty and Fortnite offer a more social experience by allowing users to video call or play games together in the same virtual space.

The Rise of Fortnite:
One unique aspect of Fortnite's success is its ability to attract a demographic that was previously uninterested in gaming. Many self-proclaimed "荒野女子" (kouya joshi) users were high school girls who had never played games before. They found traditional social media platforms to be disconnected from genuine social experiences and were drawn to the social nature of Fortnite. The game provides an avenue for expressing oneself authentically, without the need for curated photos or staged performances.

People First, App First:
The shift from an app-centric approach to a people-centric approach is evident in the rise of People First platforms. Instead of separate apps for different purposes, People First platforms allow users to meet up with friends and engage in various activities within a single app or service. This approach offers a more holistic and immersive experience, where users can seamlessly transition from social interactions to shared activities.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace the concept of presence: Whether you're developing a VR platform or a traditional SNS, prioritize creating a sense of presence for users. This will enhance the social experience and keep users engaged.

2. Integrate social elements in your app or service: Take inspiration from Fortnite's success by incorporating social interactions and shared activities within your app or service. This will attract users who crave genuine social experiences.

3. Focus on quality and immersive experiences: If you're developing a game or a VR platform, invest in creating high-quality, immersive experiences from the start. This will set you apart from mere add-on mini-games and ensure long-term success.

Conclusion:
The evolution of social networking platforms has shown us the importance of authentic social experiences and the role of presence in keeping users engaged. From Snapchat's emphasis on presence to Fortnite's ability to attract non-gamers, these platforms have reshaped our understanding of social media. As we move forward, it's crucial to prioritize people and create immersive experiences that foster genuine connections. By incorporating the lessons learned from these platforms, we can shape the future of social media and redefine how we interact in the digital world.