This chapter revisits the five affordances of casual democracy to assess the deliberative capacity of local public spheres in Frederiksberg and Ringwood, and to draw broader lessons about democracy in the platform age. It analyses how algorithmic logic, ethical and epistemological relativism, informal power, hidden agendas, and civic disengagement interact to shape public life across contemporary democracies. Using systemic deliberative theory, the chapter evaluates how authenticity, inclusiveness, and consequentiality are sustained or undermined in digital local spheres. While Frederiksberg’s strong governance structure sustains accountability, Ringwood’s institutional fragility exposes systemic weaknesses found in many small communities. The chapter argues that these cases illuminate wider democratic challenges, showing how platformised publics can foster participation yet struggle to maintain deliberative depth and stability.