Social gaming networks feature multi-player games with a strong social context. In most cases, online social games are built around rewarding players for effectively using social skills.
Social gaming networks may include several games or they might be centered around a single game. Social games often, but not always, enable users to take turns, given that they are played with another person. In a social game, users are aware of the actions taken by other players, as this not only adds interest to the game, but it encourages interactions with other players.
Social gaming networks are based on a social network platform, and the games are multi-player games because, of course, there is nothing social in solitaire. The games played in a gaming network might be as simple as tic-tac-toe, between two players, or as complex as a virtual reality game involving hundreds or thousands of players.
While not strictly gaming networks, for the purpose of categorization, social networks focused on video gaming may be included in this category as well, even when they don't support online gaming within the network. However, video game retail sites without the elements of a social network should be submitted to the Video Games category.
Whatever the format, social networks built around gameplay are appropriate for this category.
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Since its founding in 2005, Bebo has served a variety of aspects within the social media and has changed hands several times. Currently, Bebo offers high school gameplay, allowing teams to play against other players their age, and in their state, as well as the opportunity to compete in tournaments, where they can win real prizes, including cash and gaming gear, with support for Windows, XBox One, and PS4. Its terms of service, privacy policies and merchandise are featured.
https://bebo.com/
CDE is a virtual playland for tweens that features a large collection of original cartoon dolls, as well as arcade games, cute pictures, contests, and a forum. The social network allows users to create avatars, buy and sell items with virtual currency, take on jobs, earn reputation points, and engage in a variety of make-believe games. COPPA-compliant, the network’s safety policies are highlighted, with an introduction for parents and children. Advertising opportunities are available.
http://www.cartoondollemporium.com/
The California-based online community is an anime-themed social networking site. Originally known as Go-Gaia, it was created as an anime link list, then moved toward gaming, but eventually began focusing on its forums. Upon registration, members receive a custom avatar, which can be customized in several ways, including the online purchase of clothing items and accessories. It Gaia virtual towns, the avatar appears as a movable character that interacts with the environment.
https://www.gaiaonline.com/
Headquartered in London, Green Man Gaming is an online video game retailer with a catalog of thousands of games from hundreds of publishers, with worldwide distribution. In 2017, the company started a new community platform integrated with its online store, in which users create profiles, participate in its discussion forum, view in-depth game states, news and updates from the industry, including guides for upcoming titles, giveaways, and more.
https://www.greenmangaming.com/
Built around shared computer graphics, game screenshots, and virtual stories told by members, the online community network allows members to upload, share, and review content that they create within games, virtual worlds, and a shared virtual space, known as metaverse. To begin, users are prompted to select a world, type a name for their avatar, and give an account of their interests and skills in their virtual life. Within the game, they meet other avatars, explore their world and others.
http://www.koinup.com/
The web gaming portal features more than a hundred thousand online games and more than thirty mobile games, as well as downloadable games. Users may upload Adobe Flash, HTML 5/JavaScript, Shockwave, Java, or Unity games, and players can integrate high scores and achievement badges. Premium membership allows for ad-free gameplay and browsing, an exclusive username icon, members’ only chat, private chat, profile skins, and beta access.
https://www.kongregate.com/
Released in 2003, Second Life is an online virtual world. While similar to a multiplayer online role-playing game, its developers insist that it is not a game, as there is no manufactured conflict and no set objective to it. Accessed through Linden Lab's client programs or through third-party viewers, users create virtual representations of themselves, known as avatars, and are able to interact with places, objects, and other avatars, as they explore the grid and socialize with other residents.
https://secondlife.com/
