Modeling Reality with Virtual Worlds

Virtual worlds can be used in several different ways. The most common is simply that of a video game, or a way to have fun. I personally have never played games like World of Warcraft or Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, but have heard many rave about them. Others use it as a getaway. Worlds like that of SecondLife have been used to help people feel more involved or satisfied. The article ‘Naughty Auties’ battle autism with virtual interaction shows a great example. A man with Asperger’s created a world in SecondLife specifically for promoting social interaction with people with autism. They take advantage of the realistic discussion and second world while remaining in their comfort zones in the real world. This world is meant to help those who interact with people poorly in the real world improve their sociability. Some even use virtual worlds to go to familiar places, such as the Lower East Side discussed in I’ve Been in That Club, Just Not in Real Life, without the negative aspects experienced physically being there. Pros of virtual worlds include unique interaction with others, using the world as a getaway or safe haven, and the fostering of creativity. Creativity in virtual worlds can be anything from creating a character/avatar to developing your own community with rules and a “way of life.” Naughty Auties is a form of creativity caused by virtual worlds. David Savill created his own virtual gathering place with a specific goal in mind, and accomplished that goal. A virtual world is itself a creative way to “hang out” with other people. Cons of virtual worlds can be mostly related to getting too caught up in them. Spending too much time on games such as World of Warcraft could hinder your ability or opportunities to form relationships in person. There are many stories and plenty of stereotypes linked to virtual worlds of how people get lost in them. It will be interesting to see how virtual worlds evolve in the future. I’m sure it will involve more stimulation of the senses, with motion sensors and smells maybe. When I think of the future of virtual reality, I can’t help think something like Tron and putting on a helmet or suit to experience them.