Social Games: Success Comes With Player's Status?

I remember the days when traditional games were all about the playing experience; mind blowing visual graphics, cool sound effects, real life situations, etc. With the success of social media games, comes a big question, what makes them successful? Is it the fact that users can publish through their profile status what game are they playing and how good they are?

My answer would be yes! The profile status becomes a billboard that let other people know about the game activities you are on. And this works as a "word of mouth" kind of advertising. The ease of recommendation given by the network's structure allows users to discover games and get involve in them. Plus, add the attention that they receive when high scores and other game facts are shown to the rest of their friends. It might work as a motivator for other players. Have you ever feel motivated to play a social game because a friend's profile recommendation?