The fundamentals of social gaming – from a user’s point of view
What is social gaming?
Social gaming is online play built around social features, where users compete or team up with friends, family, and other players.
- You can play on a PC, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone.
- Games run in real time or at your own pace, so anyone can join.
- Players share scores, chat, and post progress to social media.
Social gaming has grown into a huge part of online life. Many people use it to relax, connect, and lift their spirits. In fact, the market was projected to grow up to 98.8 billion USD by 2024. This shows how people around the world build friendships and socialize online. So let’s look at how social gaming works from a user’s point of view.
What is social gaming? A closer look
Social gaming, unlike console games, suits people of all ages and genders. You can play these games online on a PC, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. Many titles feel a lot like a mobile app you open for a quick session.
As the name suggests, this type of gaming has a social side. Players can play against other gamers, friends, colleagues, or family. They do this through synchronous or asynchronous gameplay.
Players can also join leaderboards or chat rooms. In addition, they can share their game progress on their social media accounts. Popular examples that many people play worldwide include Candy Crush, Clash of Clans, and FarmVille.
Characteristics of social gaming
To understand social gaming better, it helps to know its main traits. These include the following.
Awareness and interactions
In social gaming, players can talk and interact with each other. They also see the actions and wins of other players. So the game feels alive and shared.
Multiplayer
Like console games, social games often offer multiplayer. Players can compete against each other or work as a team. As a result, they finish missions together. The core code that powers this often sits inside a shared game engine.
Social platforms
Games like Pet Society and FarmVille first hit Facebook in the late 2000s. After that, the gaming landscape significantly changed. It gave rise to a new kind of gaming, and games were no longer stuck on computers and consoles.
Social gaming reaches a huge crowd because it lives on social networks. So users can grow their bonds with their existing friends while they play.
Social gaming usage patterns
Online gamers do not seem to stay on social gaming platforms for long stretches. Instead, they play in short bursts for a break or to relax.
Studies also show that social gamers often choose a “pleasant boredom.” This is because social games use simple, repeat tasks with low stress and low suspense. So players can dip in and out with ease.
2 types of social gaming interactions
When it comes to social interaction, these platforms mainly have two types.
Action-based
This type is common in games with teamwork and cooperation. Here, communication is key to reach the game’s goals.
Discussion-based
This type can cover any topic and may not affect the gameplay. For example, the chat may or may not be about the game itself.
Considerations for social gaming usability
For social gaming developers and designers, a few points help ensure good usability. So keep these in mind during the build.
Player statistics and scores
Gamers try harder when they can see rivals’ scores and stats. As a result, it gives them a reason to compete and come back.
Step-by-step tutorials
Give gamers a simple, step-by-step tutorial. Before any real tasks, make sure players grasp the rules and parts of the game.
Repetitive tasks
As noted, most social gamers play to relax. So platforms should build casual games that are easy to pick up and figure out.
Interruption and resumption
Social gaming lets players interact, so designers should allow interruptions. Players need to pause and resume the game any time they want.
Social interactions
Finally, a good social game should boost engagement through interaction. So designers should blend action-based and discussion-based features into one game.
The future of social gaming
Overall, social gaming is still a fairly new field, and new games launch all the time. So gamers can expect the next wave of titles to bring a richer, smoother experience. Many of these shifts track the latest game development trends.
As games grow more social, strong player support matters more. As a result, many studios now invest in dedicated gaming customer services to keep players happy.
For online gaming companies, you always have the option to outsource your gaming development to experts. Many firms also weigh game development outsourcing to move faster. This way, you can be sure of the quality of your social gaming product.
Frequently asked questions about social gaming
What is the difference between social gaming and gambling?
Social gaming is played for fun and connection, not real money. Gambling puts real cash at stake. Some social games use virtual coins, but those coins have no cash value.
What are examples of social games?
Well-known examples include Candy Crush, Clash of Clans, and FarmVille. These games mix simple play with social features. So players can compete, team up, and share progress.
Why is social gaming so popular?
It is easy to start and easy to play. It also lets people connect with friends online. As a result, it fits busy lives and short breaks.
What devices can you use for social gaming?
You can play on a PC, laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. Many titles run right inside a browser or an app. So players can jump in almost anywhere.
How do companies make money from social games?
Most social games are free to play. They earn through ads and in-game purchases. For example, players may buy extra lives, boosts, or cosmetic items.
Key takeaways
- Social gaming is online play built around social features and connection.
- Players compete or team up in real time or at their own pace.
- Most people play in short bursts to relax and unwind.
- Good design needs clear tutorials, easy play, and strong social features.
- Companies can outsource game development to protect quality as they scale.
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