Regarding content in virtual worlds: build it, or buy it?
For those of you who may not be completely familiar with Second Life, one of its biggest draws is that it's a haven for content creators, as opposed to virtual worlds like There.com, which doesn't let its users build anything of their own. Now, of course, what you get in exchange for the freedom to build anything you want is having to see what everyone else is building, and this includes the infamous flying penises and other Objects You'd Rather Not Have Seen, Thanks.
But, as my friend Eric Rice recently pointed out to me, there is something to be said for not having to create your world yourself. "I don't always wanna COOK dinner", he opined, and I know what he means. In my over 2 years as a SL resident, I've not created one thing; I have neither the knack nor the interest, frankly, though I do enjoy the fruits of the labors of other residents. Shopping is great fun in SL, and probably on the top of a great many lists of enjoyable activities. Exploring is equally as enjoyable, and it's this aspect of virtual worlds that deserves some scrutiny. More after the jump.
When you customize your space in There, or Kaneva, or Gaia, or any of a dozen more virtual worlds, you will eventually come up against the wall of not finding anything you really want to look at every time you log into your abode. Why do these walls not come available in puce? That lamp is hideous, but it's the only kind of fur they have! What? I can't put a window right above the toilet?
So, is it better to have to make everything you want, or better to buy it all? One gives you complete creative control at the cost of investing time and energy, the other gives you a wide variety of pre-made items at the cost of having to make do with what's available. For my part, having been an artist for games, I tend to fall on the side of creativity, but I'd also like to be surprised by the thrill of the novelty that only exists outside of your own mind. What do you all think -- which is preferable?
