For the past few weeks, I have been trying to find other virtual worlds to compare with Second Life. I quickly hit a wall. Given the wealth of social networks and programs available on the Internet, I couldn’t understand why I was having such difficulty finding other virtual worlds. That’s when it occurred to me that I needed to reevaluate my definition of virtual worlds.
My recent venture into S
econd Life marked my first experience with virtual worlds. And so when I began to search for other virtual worlds, I found myself looking for programs comparable to Second Life. But it seems there are no virtual worlds quite like Second Life – at least not for Mac users who don’t want to pay for access.
Second life is a free virtual world that is compatible with PC and Mac computers. It has thousands and thousands of avatars, fantastic graphics, and almost infinite potential for user generated content. Most virtual worlds lack the breadth and the flexibility of Second Life. When it comes to virtual worlds, it seems Second Life is the exception, not the rule.
Once I realized this, I decided to redefine my understanding of virtual worlds. Of course this is easier said than done. What are virtual worlds? Are they extensions of reality? Are they games? Are they programs that allow people of varying abilities and means to connect with one another? I’m certain entire books could be dedicated to answering these questions. I won’t even attempt to answer them here.
For my purposes, I’ve decided that virtual worlds need only two things. First, they need to provide a graphic representation of a physical space through which avatars can move and carry out tasks. Second, within this space, people from different places around the world need to be able to interact with one another.
I think the latter characteristic is especially important because the social interaction between people is what differentiates virtual worlds from computer games. But please, feel free to disagree with my interpretation of virtual worlds.
Following the guidelines I set out for myself, I decided on two other virtual worlds (both free, as well as Mac and PC compatible) which I will explore as I continue learning about virtual worlds. These are Pirate Puzzles (a virtual world for teens) and Farmville (a Facebook application).
If you’re interested and want to hear more about my thoughts and adventures through Second Life, Pirate Puzzles and Farmville, stay tuned.
I hadn’t thought about Farmville. Nice catch. If you decide you want to look at a few more this list has an interesting selection http://www.virtualworldsreview.com/info/freeaccess.shtml . My favourite so far though has been Club Penguin. I know Disney owns it, but I was impressed with the books upstairs in the coffee shop.
Gnutt