We share hobbies and interests that are a bit stigmatized by society
We spend most of our time playing the same games
They can't impact my in person life, unique perspectives
They exist
Communication by (digital) letter, no involvement in other group of friends
Actual friendship lol and the lack of judgement that people who are offline have.
aren't involved in my friend group so i can tell them anything/vent, same sense of humor
I don't have offline friends
Near consistent interaction
Different upbringings and therefore other views on topics
security through the way we communicate, can be more consistent this way, less anxiety provoking
I can be more open with them about my mental health because I know they have the same issues, and they can’t exactly ruin my life if I pissed them off like irls could
I don’t have any offline friends, so.. they exist, for starters. Since I meet them through posting things I like we have common interests. I don’t feel obligated to buy gifts for them or go to their house.
Nothing
Being able to really be yourself and not have to hide parts of who you are, since they live far away and won’t judge you for acting different.
They're always there whether I want to rant or just play something to get my mind off things. Also as an introvert it's nice being able to take breaks from friends because you aren't constantly talking with online friends when both are online.
Wider availability to chat lots of the time, deeper knowledge of shared interests due to meeting in the process of hobby, less pressure since we can’t hang out in person
Judgement free listening and advice, impartial and honest
We can be comfortable not seeing each other or being physically present for one another, but still maintain the casual relationship pretty well
Emotional support