Virtual environments for the category: 'Social'
The Convergence of Virtual Worlds and Social Networking Sites
TerraNova has an interesting article written by game designer Bob Moore. He discusses some of the latest trends regarding virtual worlds and social networking sites like Facebook and Myspace — especially related to the convergence of the two. Moore writes: “We’re starting to see a convergence of virtual worlds and social networking sites in the new wave of virtual “social” worlds (e.g., Kaneva, vSide, Virtual MTV) and new 3D Facebook applications (ActiveWorlds, Gaia Online). This might be dismissed as fad. After all, everyone is either trying to replicate or piggyback on the success of America’s #3 (MySpace) and #9 (Facebook) top-visited websites…However, I think there is more to a convergence than mere hype. I see some interesting similarities and possible synergies between virtual worlds and social networking sites but also some important differences that could make integration tricky.”
Moore makes three basic points: (1) Virtual worlds ARE already social networking sites, to some degree; (2) Social networking sites provide profiles and buddy lists for your WHOLE life, not just your virtual one; and (3) On social networking sites you play yourself, while in virtual worlds, you play someone else. He then explores whether it’s a good idea to combine virtual worlds and social networking sites.
Read the article on Terra Nova.
Kaneva
- In short: Combining a virtual environment and a social network, Kaneva,
- URL: http://www.kaneva.com
- Maintained by: Kaneva, Inc. since 2004
- Price: Free access
- Kaneva System Requirements: Windows XP or Vista, 515 MB hard drive space, 512 MB RAM, high-speed internet, Nvidia 5200/ATI X700 series graphics card or better
- Platforms supported: PC
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Zwinktopia
Zwinktopia at a Glance
- In short: A world targeted for teenagers featuring customizable 2D avatars, dorm rooms and other locations, and games to earn Zbucks.
- URL: http://www.zwinky.com/
- Maintained by: IAC Search and Media since April 2007.
- Price: Free
- Zwinktopia System Requirements: Flash-supported browser
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