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Take a trip back in time with one of the first virtual reality games

Take a trip back in time with one of the first virtual reality games

Vote: (355 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Linden Research

Version: 6.4.3.542964

Works under: Windows

Also available for Mac

Vote:

Program license

(355 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Linden Research

6.4.3.542964

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Mac

Pros

  • Free to play
  • Close to 5 million users have signed up
  • Guided introduction course to help new users become familiar with the basic operation of the software
  • Socially focused program
  • Simplified marketplace transactions for buying property and products

Cons

  • Requires a fast internet connection to enjoy advanced features
  • High specification graphics require a powerful computer
  • Server slowdown during peak usage periods
  • Despite user guides, the learning curve for the program can be steep

Live a double-life as a virtual resident of a vast online realm that's generated by animated 3-D graphics and the desires of users from all over the world.

Anyone with a computer and an internet connection can drop through a virtual doorway and into the fun simulated world known as Second Life. Behind the exciting game-like environment lies a powerful social engine cleverly designed to connect people in an immersive sensory experience some would say exceeds real life. While situated within any one of countless detailed worlds, you can walk through shopping malls built from well-defined 3-D graphics and fly across simulated mountains and oceans without the aid of an aircraft.

Create a unique avatar and walk the virtual terrain of Second Life. This exceptional online program is actually a thriving online community. Once installed, it allows users from distant lands to meet and engage in social activities. User created characters can buy clothing, change multiple appearance parameters and purchase simulated homes for their avatars to dwell within. The currency of choice within Second Life is the Linden, a monetary unit named after the creators of the program, Linden Labs.

The software has evolved significantly since its inception over 10 years ago, but one thing that hasn't altered in any way is the cost to play. Second Life is free, meaning any user can sign up for an account, download the software client and be interacting with other user avatars within minutes as long as an Internet connection is available.

The latest version of the program shows the software developer's passion for strengthening the connection between users, with their inclusion of a voice chat capability in many worlds. Standard chatting is accomplished by using a simple IM chat feature. Social interactivity involves the same multi-layered connections as real life, including clubs and groups to join and adult only sections.

Still considered to be under development, continually evolving to add new features and improvements, the software can slowdown or crash, but there are rumors of change coming in the near future, including the introduction of a virtual reality helmet for a truly immersive user experience.

Pros

  • Free to play
  • Close to 5 million users have signed up
  • Guided introduction course to help new users become familiar with the basic operation of the software
  • Socially focused program
  • Simplified marketplace transactions for buying property and products

Cons

  • Requires a fast internet connection to enjoy advanced features
  • High specification graphics require a powerful computer
  • Server slowdown during peak usage periods
  • Despite user guides, the learning curve for the program can be steep