Google can try all they want but the internet marketers always win. Going on some of the forums where SEO gurus network will really reveal a lot to you about the potential and how much they can really earn.
No reason to work in house when you can get contracted for absurd amounts in your bedroom.
The viral aspect is hands down the most important. Like you said, look at SnapChat. It's unreal how quickly it spread. Even games like Temple Run quickly boomed from friends comparing scores.
It seems like the simplistic ideas are the ones that go viral the most quickly.
No reason to work in house when you can get contracted for absurd amounts in your bedroom.