The press release looked good, but after the first two weeks at CherryTap, is the virtual pub living up to expectations, or is it just another website?
It’s been an interesting two weeks as “fresh meat” on CherryTap, although in an odd way, I’m proud to say that I didn’t wear the label for very long. I’ve actually already reached level 8 – I’m a Black Cherry.
The level business seemed odd at first, but it has advantages. If you want something to do besides stare at the screen, or enjoy having a goal to head towards, it’s a nice incentive – the more active you are on the site, the more points you earn. You earn points, you increase your level, and unlock new activities and features of the site.
I originally compared CherryTap to MySpace. There are similarities, but the more I explore the site, the more differences I’ve found. CherryTap members generally are older, in large part because members have to be over 18, as opposed to the over 13 requirement for MySpace. If you’ve stayed away from social networking sites because it feels as though you’re either baby-sitting or reliving high school traumas, CherryTap could be the site for you.
Everything is much more adult oriented, and the atmosphere and conversations can occasionally get a risque, or even downright raunchy. Much like a real bar! Members are allowed to upload adult photos, and some of them are very adult. Members are asked to keep it off their main profile page, and to label materials as NSFW (not safe for work). Not surprisingly, some members comply, some don’t, although the terms of service warn that failure to do so can result in account termination.
I have to say, so far, CherryTap seems to be living up to the promise. The atmosphere is relaxed and definitely friendly. It’s probably helped by the point system, since there’s additional incentive to go out and connect with other members, but chasing points alone isn’t enough to explain it. I’ve been sent virtual drinks, been asked out for real drinks, and invited to take part in a best-cleavage contest (I mentioned the site was more adult oriented, didn’t I?).
If you’d like to join the fun, it’s easy to become a member. (No, there’s no financial reward for me if you join – but you have to be my friend!) In the meantime, we’ll see what the next month brings!
