The concept of the metaverse has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. It involves virtual worlds where users can interact with each other, play games, conduct business and much more. There are already several metaverse platforms that allow users to immerse themselves in these digital worlds. Technologies like NFTs and blockchain are often associated with Metaverse technology. However, one has to wonderwhether these technologies really make up the Metaverse or rather serve to make quick money for the operators of these platforms. But that discussion is for another time. In this article, we take a look at some of the most popular applications that are often referred to as metaverse platforms. We make no distinction here between classic mobile and desktop apps or virtual reality apps that require VR goggles. In this regard, the term metaverse is quite commonly used for both multiplayer social VR applications and social online games. The transition from metaverse to massively multiplayer online games is also quite controversial.
Ok.... let's get to it:
Sandbox is one of the oldest Metaverse platforms and has been around since 2012. Originally launched as a 2D pixel world for smartphones, the game has evolved over the years into a 3D environment that is somewhat reminiscent of Minecraft in its aesthetic. With an avatar, users can explore the digital world, complete quests, and interact with other players.
Sandbox is based on the Ethereum blockchain and uses the internal cryptocurrency "SAND". SAND allows users to purchase items and avatars, while the token "LAND" is used to buy virtual properties. Some of Sandbox's notable features include the "VoxEdit" editor, which allows users to create their own avatars and objects and sell them as NFTs, and the "GameMaker," which allows users to create their own 3D games without needing programming skills. The platform has been most notably featured by celebreties like Snoop Dogg and Paris Hilton. Critics say that quick cash is being made here with the buzz around blockchain and NFTs. The long-term value of the digital goods and properties that can be purchased on Sandbox remains controversial.
Decentraland is another Metaverse platform that offers similar features to The Sandbox. Users can explore a fairly simple 3D world with their avatar, play games, and buy properties as NFTs. At the heart of Decentraland is the in-game cryptocurrency "MANA," which users can use to buy and sell properties. The platform also offers the ability to sell your own NFTs in stores created on the plots. Decentraland has grown amid the hype around Metaverse and NFTs, and many wonder if the platform deserves this attention. When technically compared to similar platforms, Decentralland looks like a test verstion.
Somnium Space is a virtual reality world based on blockchain and entirely designed by players. The space offers its players the ability to create, purchase, and import NFTs for immediate use and monetization. The game is available on all major virtual reality PC VR headsets including Oculus, HTC, VIVE, HP and Valve. The game focuses on graphical quality and therefore does not yet run on Quest and Pico VR devices, but only on PC-based virtual reality systems
Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has also developed its own Metaverse platform called Horizon Worlds. This platform works with VR headsets like Oculus Rift S or Oculus Quest 2. Users can create their own worlds with the in-game tools and immerse themselves in the worlds of other players. Horizon Worlds offers various mini-games and even enables performances by famous musicians.
Horizon Worlds is strongly reminiscent of the competitor VR Chat in its design and functionality. Elements of the VR multiplayer gaming platform RecRoom are also undeniable. Through head and body movements, users can move around in virtual space and enjoy an immersive experience. The platform is not accessible in Germany Horizon Worlds is at the center of Mark Zuckerberg's Metaverse strategy. The platform already has a considerable number of users, but clearly falls short of Meta's expectations, and there have been some criticisms in the past, especially regarding sexual harassment of players and the simplistic graphics. Of course, we can't leave out the very intense discussion that took place on the Internet about the fact that the players had no legs. Here is good news for all friends of Horizon Worlds. Meta has announced a patch for avatars including legs in 2023.
Rec Room is another community-based VR Metaverse game and impresses with its diverse possibilities. It is inspired by VRChat, but adds new levels of play. The community has created many games that can be played alongside socializing. Players have already created millions of rooms in this game and there is a possibility to create infinite more. A special feature of Rec Room is its cross-platform playability. Rec Room runs with users from any platform, be it a mobile device, PC or VR headset.
Hubs gives you access to an online meeting place directly from your web browser. Create personalized virtual environments with Hubs. After you create an environment, you can simply share the link and invite others to join you. No need to download or go to the app store. Together, you and those you know can enter this virtual space. Watch videos or interact with 3D models to relax. Share your virtual space with friends, colleagues. Hubs runs on both PC and headsets. However, Hubs is graphically quite basic, as the 3D performance of the system is quite limited. So don't expect photorealism. The charm of Hubs is the low barrier to entry.
The Metaverse offers a new way of interaction and entertainment. The featured Metaverse platforms offer users the ability to explore digital worlds, play games, buy and sell properties. It will be interesting to see how the Metaverse evolves in the future once the hype dies down and what new opportunities it offers users. It will be especially interesting to see if Meta's strategy of paying extreme attention to the social Metaverse aspect of VR pans out. Even die-hard VR fans are not necessarily enthusiastic about virtual meetings in the Metaverse as avatars.
