postmelt

Postmelt refers to the period following the rapid decline of online communities and platforms that experienced significant growth during the early 2010s, particularly those centered around niche interests, gaming, or social interaction. The term gained prominence in the mid-2010s as many websites, forums, and apps—such as Reddit, 4chan, and niche gaming communities—went through periods of decline, moderation shifts, or outright shutdowns. This decline was often attributed to changes in platform policies, economic pressures, or shifts in user behavior.

The phenomenon is closely tied to the broader concept of "platform fatigue," where users became disillusioned with the constant evolution and homogenization of online spaces. Early adopters of these communities, who helped shape their culture, often felt alienated as platforms grew larger and more corporate. The term "postmelt" captures the sense of nostalgia and reflection among former participants, who look back on the pre-decline era as a time of greater authenticity and community cohesion.

While some platforms adapted and survived, others faded into obscurity, leaving behind a cultural legacy that continues to influence discussions about online community management, moderation, and the sustainability of digital spaces. The term is also used metaphorically to describe the aftermath of any rapid cultural or technological shift, where the initial excitement gives way to a more mature, often fragmented, landscape.