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
Game design and mechanics: core elements include social graphs, social invites, leaderboards, co-operative and competitive play,
Platforms and examples: early successes were browser-based and Facebook-integrated titles; later examples include Words with Friends,
Impact and criticisms: social gaming has expanded reach for casual gaming, fostered social interaction and coordination,