socialgaming

Social gaming refers to video games that are designed to emphasize social interaction among players, often leveraging online networks, friends lists, and real-time or asynchronous collaboration and competition. These games are typically accessible on mobile devices or web platforms and may be played alone while connected to a social graph, or directly with others through in-game social features.

The term gained prominence with social networks in the late 2000s, notably Facebook, where titles such as FarmVille popularized social gameplay through friend invitations, gifts, and sharing progress. Over the following decade, social gaming broadened to mobile platforms and standalone social networks, with free-to-play models that rely on microtransactions.

Game design and mechanics: core elements include social graphs, social invites, leaderboards, co-operative and competitive play, and asynchronous progression. Many games enable cross-platform play, sharing achievements, and competitive events. Monetization strategies include virtual goods, energy or time-limited participation, ads, and occasional subscriptions.

Platforms and examples: early successes were browser-based and Facebook-integrated titles; later examples include Words with Friends, FarmVille, and other casual titles on iOS and Android, as well as mobile augmented reality games with social components. The genre also intersects with mass-market social networks and casual multiplayer titles.

Impact and criticisms: social gaming has expanded reach for casual gaming, fostered social interaction and coordination, and created new marketing ecosystems for developers. Critics point to monetization tactics, privacy concerns, and the potential for excessive time spent in socially driven mechanics.