We are incredibly social creatures. We’re constantly at the ready to engage with discourse, laugh at a funny situation, talk with people, make friends with others – and yes, this holds true even if you’re a self-identified introvert. The online world is full of opportunities to be social and connect, even if you don’t directly engage. Simply reading, watching, or playing with others (whether or not words are exchanged) is social.
That’s why online gaming is so incredibly fun, even if you don’t play games with a microphone on or a keyboard at the ready to chat. Simply being a part of something challenging with others can make a huge difference, which is why online gaming has such a rich social side:
How Social Elements Elevate the Online Game
Adding social elements has completely changed the very genre of the online game. Unlike solo-play couch games, which, while engaging, are not social in the traditional sense, online games are built around connection.
In fact, they’ve easily become one of the biggest draws for online games. Some may prefer to play only with or alongside their IRL friends, while others are open to meeting new people. The ability to connect elevates the online game, naturally increases that fun sense of competition, and also brings people together over their shared love of games.
Live Play
Live play is easily one of the most directly social sides of online gaming, and there are a few different iterations to enjoy, too. Online casinos like Kanuuna.com, for example, offer live casino games where you’ll play against a real dealer you see via a video stream. Other platforms allow you to play live directly with or against other players, going so far as to offer a live-chat feature for those with microphones.
Live play is the immediate way to play with another person, all without needing to head out and meet up. It’s a great way to engage, and, in some situations, even meet new people while having fun and enjoying your favorite games.
Leaderboards
Most online games today will offer leaderboards, which are essentially tables that include the players or teams with the highest points. This is a great way to spark that competitive edge while also rewarding players for frequent and dedicated play. It is, on its own, one of the less actively social elements of online gaming, but it still drives home the idea that you aren’t alone and that yes, there are plenty of other people just like you who enjoy that particular game.
Chat Rooms
Chat rooms are another exceptional social element to online games that cannot be overlooked. After all, chatting directly with a microphone to strangers can be incredibly daunting, and no, not everyone is keen to do it. That’s why the option of live chats shakes things up. Live chats give everyone the ability, and even the confidence, to contribute to the conversation.
Fan Spaces
Online gaming doesn’t begin and end with the game itself. Fan culture has evolved and has carved out digital spaces in the process. This means that you can find fans for your game on platforms like Reddit or even individual forums or groups on Discord, where you can talk to other players about the game or platform freely.
The Nitty Gritty: What’s Needed to Create a Thriving Social Space Online
As with everything, there are dark sides to these social features. That’s why it’s on platforms to improve the safety and security of their site, so that players can enjoy peace of mind and a hassle-free experience when playing. These features can range from reporting tools all the way to self-exclusion features and Know-Your-Customer checks to keep minors out.
