Virtual worlds: today and in the future.(SELECTED TOPIC)(Virtual World Entertainment)

Increased broadband access and the emergence of more powerful computers for everyday use are fueling a rise in the popularity of shared multi-user online spaces known as virtual worlds.

Virtual worlds are simulated environments accessed by multiple users through an online interface. Other terms for virtual worlds include digital worlds, synthetic worlds, and massively multiplayer online games. Perhaps you've visited one already. If not, your children probably have.

Neal Stephenson's 1992 novel Snow Crash envisioned a futuristic virtual world called the metaverse, in which characters controlled digital representations of themselves (known as avatars) in a shared online environment.

Today, instead of one cohesive metaverse, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of virtual worlds in existence, with themes ranging from fantasy and science fiction to idealized modern environments like tropical islands, gardens and town squares.

Most of today's virtual worlds have been built by commercial entities for entertainment purposes.

The majority are conceived of and marketed as games, but over time the term virtual world will expand to cover a broader range of uses in the entertainment, education, medical and military industries.

Virtual Worlds, Real Money