Just before Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter reigned the social networking world, there was a pioneering social media network called Friendster – launched by Jonathan Abrams in 2002. It was able to reach millions of people, making it a big “thing”, especially to Asians.
During those days, social media meant fun and entertainment where users could play games and music. But when Friendster fell off the face of the earth, the new social media platforms that basically took over are now filled with fake news, if not, easily offended netizens.
Because of these reasons, you probably miss Friendster instead. You know, when some of the things we always looked forward to were sending “testimonials” to friends or customizing our background layout. That’s why we’ve lumped together some Friendster’s quirky features.
Badass nicknames or usernames
Do you still remember that awesome feeling whenever you have to log in your account using your “badass” username? Well, most of us, had created our personal gangster-like monikers such as: Bhosxz M4paGm4HAL, miszMaldiTahh13, LiL’ ZupLadO, and many more.
And we were so proud of it.
Profile Background Music
“The best thing about tonight’s that we’re not fighting. It couldn’t be that we have been this way before. I know you don’t think that I am trying…”
Ah, this gives us so much feels! Also, it’s really impossible not to sing along because the lyrics sound familiar. Friendster also gained popularity because of its background music feature – a song that would start playing when someone visited your Friendster profile and vice-versa.
And every person’s profile would not be complete without adding these songs to their playlist. The most famous songs back then were from pop-punk bands such as Secondhand Serenade (Fall For You), Red Jumpsuit Apparatus (Your Guardian Angel), Welcome To The Black Parade (My Chemical Romance), and, Boys Like Girls (Thunder).
Testimonials or “testi”
Another round of nostalgic feeling are those “Pahingi naman ng testi!” shoutouts from your peers. Testimonials or “testi” were personal and cheesy posts from your high school barkada. And as a good friend, you should also make a testimonial for them!
Glitter Texts and Colorful background
Of course, no one would ever forget the customized sparkly texts and animated lettering. Those good old days when you felt like you had the “power” to customize everything! Also, Glitter text was one of the coolest things used to customize profile layouts.
“Who viewed your profile?”
The “Who Viewed Your Profile” feature was probably everyone’s favorite. Peeps who grew up during Friendster days apparently know that one of the most exciting reasons to check your account is to look whether your crush viewed your profile too.
Sad to say that the final testimonial of the so-called “grandfather” of all social media networks ended its services in 2015. Our memories using Friendster may not be entirely good but one thing is for sure: Friendster was the first social media network that let us build connections–be it genuine or not.
/TV