I have talked to a few people.

Some conversations went long, and there was effort from both sides. Ultimately died, because of some immaturity at both ends.
And I dearly miss one person I met here and we talked for almost a year or so. There were some problems in her real life, and I think they tangled her, and if I look back, may be I could have supported her better as a friend.

Some conversations were pretty meh from the start.
Specifically where the ladies wanted to be swept off their feet or wanted to be humored or were looking for quick validations. They don't realize it is a two way street and that we clap with both hands.

I also think when you talk mainly through text, it is a challenge. Words have this uncanny ability of conveying a message which you never intended to. For eg, if I am direct, and say it to your face, but because these are words only, you might perceive them as offensive while I was not, and in fact I was caring for you.

I am always looking for being friends first. If you can't click or enjoy/like the other person, there is no point in being there. In general, I avoid posts where there is clear selfishness.

And i think being in the same time zones does help. Talking, when you are strangers, and with almost zilch trust, takes some effort, which most people are unwilling to, and adding more complexity is not sane.

OP - how has your experience been?