James Cameron’s new film, Avatar, teaches us nothing about avatars. Why? Well, let’s take a step back and look at the basic idea that already exists. Most people are members of one of the 20 or so major religions, pretty much all of which have the concept of the avatar in common. Throughout religious philosophy and doctrine, your body and brain are considered to be your … [Read more...] about Avatar: The film, the idea and the word
The Archive
Virtual worlds predictions for 2010
Having completed our review of our 2009 predictions, we're back for another round for the coming year. 1. OpenSim will continue or even improve on its growth trajectory - the momentum will continue, although a handful of larger grids are likely to have the lion's share of that growth, with all the challenges that go along with it. 2. Australia will have its first government … [Read more...] about Virtual worlds predictions for 2010
2009 predictions review
Twelve months ago we published our ten predictions for 2009. Below is the report card on them. 2009: how accurate was our crystal ball? Prediction 1: OpenSim grids will bleed Second Life users - this may seem a very obvious prediction given the growth of OpenSim grids, but what I mean here is that the exodus will be obvious. It won’t be a migration that will affect Second … [Read more...] about 2009 predictions review
Metaplace announces its closure
In what can be pretty comfortably considered a shock move, Metaplace has announced it is closing in January 2010. The announcement alludes to a lack of uptake as a reason for the closure, but no significant details are given. A FAQ has been provided and founder Raph Koster has confirmed refunds for December subscriptions and stated that a website for Metaplace residents to … [Read more...] about Metaplace announces its closure
The Watch – virtual worlds in the news
1. AdAge (USA) - Guinness Lets U.K. Drinkers Create Virtual Worlds. "Guinness is offering U.K. drinkers a personalized virtual-reality experience in a partnership with Google Earth that lets people create their own worlds and then invite friends to join them via Facebook. The Diageo-owned stout is best known for its epic TV commercials, but Guinness is moving its marketing … [Read more...] about The Watch – virtual worlds in the news