I love connecting with gamers, and since Google+ went live and is now in the testing phase, I am looking forward to seeing the ways in which the new social networking site will impact the gaming world. It seems pretty clear to me that Google is positioned to compete with Facebook, particularly with the technologically sophisticated tools that it has unveiled. Because the social networking site is still in its testing phase, users must receive an invite in order to create a profile and utilize the platform.
Google+ Games
It seems as though Google+ plans to unleash a Google+ Games feature, although only time will tell if this product will actually launch. It seems likely, though, as Google invested over $100 million in Zynga (creator of FarmVille and CityVille) in 2010. Google+ Games may include unique games created by Zynga, and I anticipate these games will be technologically progressive in nature. The Google/Zynga partnership will likely launch and market many gaming opportunities through the highly anticipated Google+ Games feature.
Google+ and Gamers
Though the Google+ Games feature remains shrouded in mystery and has resulted in a good amount of internet speculation, I anticipate that beyond that feature Google+ itself, much like Facebook, will allow for a great amount of connectivity among gaming enthusiasts. Google+, with its level of technical sophistication, promises to appeal to the world technologically advanced gamers. The newest social networking platform requires that users understand a higher level of web-based functionality and tools. I am most excited to understand more about the platform because I believe it will draw out additional opportunities for social connection amongst online gaming enthusiasts. I anticipate a higher amount of games schedules, particularly for existing Online Dougie users.
I believe that Google+ may weed out some peripheral social networking users claiming to enjoy online gaming, but who do not enjoy exploring the progressive nature of digital technology. Google+ appeals to highly sophisticated users, thus promising to attract sophisticate gamers by default. The gamers I know tend to understand and value web-based technological advances.
Google+ is poised to compete, and as such, I believe that it will be on the forefront of social networking advances, thereby strengthening connections among gamers. I am excited to chart the results. In the meantime, does anyone want to schedule a game of Call of Duty: Black Ops?
