Phoenix Reflections

Escapism is a requirement for keeping an individual’s sanity intact. The traditional forms of release are the television, radio, reading or an outing. The new transporter on the block is the virtual world courtesy the Internet.

The virtual world is a computer stimulated world aping the real world but allowing you to play God and giving you a chance to create a ‘NEW’ ‘IMPROVED’ you, called an avatar. These virtual worlds have now become a massive online business providing multi-player online role-playing games such as EverQuest, Guild Wars and the popular Second Life.

Despite some of the tedious prerequisites of these worlds like download speed, time spent on creating the avatars, a graphics card and the availability of cash to update the new you, it has managed to attract masses of gaming enthusiasts and Internet addicts. Taking advantage of this obsession many multinational companies including Nike, Sony Entertainment, Toyota and Apparel have teamed up with this booming business and provide their specialized lines to these gaming sites at a charge they consider minimal, for hours of pleasure. These virtual worlds are the next frontier in blurring advertising and entertainment.

The virtual society is like a playground where an individual can fulfill all his fantasies. Unlike his real life, here he can be in absolute control and this very factor drives the demand for these virtual worlds. Man today, despite being the master of all, has developed a sense of insecurity in him. The reassurance that he is a significant part of the world draws him into a fake world.

One major weakness of people tends to come to the forefront, the fear of isolation and the need to prove themselves. The constant need for companionship is fodder for the virtual world. It provides a platform for not only meeting people from all over the world but also challenging them and displaying ones skills.

Though they are an extension of the gaming industry these virtual world platforms are now being adopted for commerce, education, military and vocational training.

It isn’t long before the thick line between ‘real’ and ‘fantasy’ becomes a distant blur.