Exploring Online Worlds

We like to say say "we're only human" but for millions of people the option exists to be an elf, orc, wookie or something completely new. These are people who take part in various virtual worlds, massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs) and massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs). The main thing that makes these games different from a game that you might play on your computer or Playstation / X-Box / Nintendo etc is the presence of thousands of other players with whom you interact. This lends the 'games' a greater degree of 'reality' and unpredictability - just like in real life and can lead to team-work and strategy. In addition the games have real community elements with forums and sometimes even 'events' where people get together in real-life.

Most MMOGs are subscription based although many have a free membership, often for a set trial period, which has limited abilities but to really get involved you will have to pay. The market for MMOGs in the West is now worth more than $1,000,000,000¹. These worlds run 24-7 with people logging in from all over the world and have in-game helpers (sometimes called Game-Masters) that you can go to for help if you get stuck or if you feel someone is acting inappropriately.

Getting started generally means installing some software on your home PC (or other gaming platform), reading the guides and generating an avatar (character) to play with. Most games have getting started section which might even guide you through your first interactions with the game. Its also worth looking for the keyboard guide. Some worlds have a beginners area that you can use.

You will need:

• A broadband connection - the faster the better and a reasonably modern computer with a good graphics card. Check on the game's web site for detailed technical requirements.
• Time - like setting up in a new country it takes time to become acclimatised to your new 'world'.
• Money - most of these worlds require subscription and/or have some type of in-game currency which can be purchased.

Footnotes

1. 1. Virtual worlds are 'worth $1bn' BBC News Tuesday, 20 March 2007