life….don’t talk to me about (second life)….
July 9th, 2009actually…do…because SECOND LIFE is something extraordinary…having spent a lot of time on there, I feel qualified to comment on something which typifies everything the naysayers feel about the internet and so called “games”. I’m currently on there with a partner, rent a house, go to parties and generally have a thoroughly good time. it isn’t a replacement for real life, more an escape from it. I’ve met people on there from all round the world, had sensible, adult discussions on world issues as well as having a good time with the lady who has become my avatar’s reason for being there.
Of course there’s the odd blip, and more than once I’ve known people get really hurt by others on SL. The important thing to remember seems to be that there’s real people behind those avatars…with real feelings and emotions. the good times far outweigh the bad, and more than once I’ve been helpless with laughter at the goings-on on there. One serious point is for those who are disabled in real life. Second Life gives them a chance to live the life they’d not have otherwise…whether it be just to walk, or to interact with others in an able bodied way. The barriers set by society mean nothing in SL, as you can be exactly who you want to be.
There’s the option to pay real currency for goods using the in-game “Linden Dollars”. At the moment the Brits do quite well out of this given the £/$ exchange rate adding to the “realism”. whether this is a good thing, given the “credit crunch” is open to discussion. Being an adults only game, the responsibility is left to you as to how much/little you spend.
Much like any other computer/console “game”, it does have addictive moments…all too often you could find yourself with on-line friends in the wee small hours just passing the time of day/night. Having friends from the USA, and the attendant difference in time probably doesn’t help. *laugh*
So…if you’ve not tried it already, and are bored with those endless bloody “Sims” games, give SL a go. Just be careful out there !
WATCHMEN:END IS NIGH DEMO
