While the biggest 3D Virtual Worlds are Second Life and There, I thought it would be worth creating a page cataloguing what else is out there. I try to keep up with the latest in 3D virtual worlds, but new stuff keeps popping up all the time, so no doubt I will miss stuff. I’m posting a page to keep track of it all.

Just a definition. A 3D Virtual World contains the following traits: 1. Its a Massively Multiplayer Online Game. 2. It renders in 3D (ruling out the literally hundreds of 2D flash virtual worlds like Club Penguin and Gaia Online). 3. It allows for multiple types of activities, primarily non-competitive social ones. (ruling out the dozens of MMORPG games as well as single activity games like the golf MMOG Albatross 18).

3D Virtual Worlds should also feature: Customizable avatars, customizable 3D residences, user created clothing, user created scriptable objects, Text/Speech/Gesture communication, Internet integration, multiplayer game launching capabilities. I covered this in more detail in “What is a Metaverse?”

Note: Just because it is listed here does not mean I endorse it. I’m trying to make a list as complete as possible. There are some old and lame games on the list. There are also some new ones with potential, but not ready for prime time yet. There are also some special interest worlds that should have appeal for some. Do a little research before you actually join any of these games.

• Read on at: http://arianeb.com/more3Dworlds.htm
• Submitted by: Giulia Lederberg
• Submitted: 25 Jun 08