We created this blog post for the EU-funded project “V2B: Creating NFT Opportunities on Metaverse for Art VET Trainees”, and our project reference number is 2022-1-DE02-KA210-VET-000080828. Coordinated by L4Y Learning for Youth GmbH in collaboration with Adana Cukurova Guzel Sanatlar and EMC Services Ltd, “Different Metaverse Platforms” is prepared related to the training framework in the introduction post.
We delve into the metaverse landscape burgeoning with possibilities. With platforms like Decentraland and Sandbox leading the charge, alongside other specialised metaverses, users are spoilt for choice. Each venue offers unique opportunities to explore, interact, and even create. As the digital frontier grows and diversifies, we need to navigate our virtual adventures with discernment. So, strap on your VR headset, immerse yourself in these mesmerising digital universes and be a part of the ever-evolving virtual reality world. You can also find more blog posts in our R2 category. It is one of the posts.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the Metaverse: Learn what a metaverse is and why it’s important in virtual reality.
- Explore Key Platforms: Get to know platforms like Decentraland and Sandbox, and what makes each unique.
- Compare Platforms: Discover how different metaverse platforms like Decentraland and Sandbox compare to each other in terms of what they offer.
- Recognize Opportunities: Identify the opportunities and future possibilities within these digital platforms.
After reading the blog post, learners should have a well-rounded understanding of the current metaverse platforms available, their unique features, and their potential implications in the virtual reality landscape. They should also be equipped to decide which platform best aligns with their interests and goals.
Different Metaverse Platforms: Decentraland
Firstly, one of the virtual worlds we mentioned is Decentraland. Moreover, it is one of the metaverse’s most used and trusted platforms. As its name suggests, Decentraland carries out its transactions with the Ethereum blockchain, with its “decentralised” structure.
Decentraland Platform
So, let’s enter this universe together and discover what’s going on.
When we enter Decentraland from here, we are greeted by a screen with two login options. We can play as a guest, or if we want, we can continue by connecting our wallet and logging into our account.
To connect your wallet, enter your metamask wallet and select ethereum.
When we log in to the platform, we are asked to create an avatar. Because, these avatars, which we produce according to our criteria, are our appearance in the virtual world. Also, after completing our avatar, we need to find a name for our avatar. If we name your avatar, we are ready to enter Decentraland.
Decentraland Universe: An Exclusive Virtual World
Upon stepping into the Decentraland universe for the first time, the immediate allure arises from the realism of the characters, the vibrant colors, and the liveliness of the areas and plots. When you enter Decentraland, you have the freedom to engage in the events you encounter or explore any direction you desire. However, it’s crucial to recognize that despite the vastness of the platform, physical movement is constrained.
MANA, the designated cryptocurrency within Decentraland, serves as the medium for transactions and interactions. To fully immerse yourself in this expansive universe, the experience is enhanced when viewed in 3D, especially when using VR headsets.
Participation in various events within Decentraland, such as concerts and fashion weeks, represents a unique facet of the platform. Moreover, an intriguing example involves a real estate company leveraging a plot acquired through a $2.4 million investment to host a fashion week event.
Decentraland Land Buying And Selling
When you press the M key on the keyboard, the Decentraland map will appear. When we come to the Builder section, we can buy and sell LANDs from the LANDS section. So what is this LAND? LAND is the name given to the lands in Decentraland.
We can view the items we use in the game from the LANDS section or make buy-sell transactions. Additionally, we can see the plots from the parcel sections. Furthermore, by using JUMP IN from this menu, we can visit the land we want to select and have the opportunity to examine it in more detail. Finally, we can buy the land or make an offer for the ground with the BUY option.
You can view the exchanges that Decenterland is involved in, such as Binance, here.
Decentraland Is Not Just For Sure Buyers
Let’s answer the question on the minds of most readers of this article: “Can I use Decentraland only for trading?” The answer to this is undoubtedly no. You do not have to buy the parcels you inspect. You can examine the properties on Decentraland. Furthermore, you can follow the current situation in token prices by reviewing the chart. This way, you can invest in tokens. In other words, since the increase in token prices will affect land prices at the same rate, it would be a logical move to invest in tokens by examining land prices.
Decentraland’s Future Potential
It is one platform that reaches the most robust audience among the Metaverse platforms. Additionally, Decentraland undergoes continuous development and constant evolution. Furthermore, as the place and importance of the virtual world in our physical world increase, virtual reality platforms such as Decentraland will become more involved in our lives. That’s why Decentraland is an increasingly important metaverse platform.
Different Metaverse Platforms: Sandbox
Secondly, metaverses have taken center stage in the ever-evolving realm of virtual reality. Consequently, these digital universes allow users to immerse themselves in limitless possibilities and creative endeavors. One such metaverse that has garnered immense popularity is the Sandbox. Therefore, in this article, we will delve into the intriguing realm of Sandbox, exploring its features, gameplay, and potential future in the market.
What is a Sandbox?
In metaverses, a Sandbox allows users to construct, design, and explore virtual worlds without constraints or predefined narratives. It is a blank canvas where individuals can unleash their creativity, shaping their distinct experiences. A Sandbox provides the tools and resources to build awe-inspiring virtual landscapes, making it an ideal digital playground for artists and gamers.
How to Use a Sandbox
Using a Sandbox is surprisingly effortless. Upon entering the website, users are greeted with a user-friendly interface that caters to individuals with varying levels of expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a novice explorer, the Sandbox offers intuitive controls and commands that allow anyone to partake in the virtual realm.
Enter the Website and Continue
Login and Register:
To log in to the Sandbox website, go to sandbox.com from your browser.
Select “Sign Up” or “Create Account” if logging in for the first time.
If you have an existing account, access your existing account with the “Sign In” option.
When creating a new account, you must specify a username, email address and password.
Once the registration process is completed, you can log in to your account.
Home Page
Once you log in to Sandbox, you will find different options and contents on the home page.
The homepage shows the most popular games, new content, creators’ projects, and community events.
Game Selection
Users can design and publish their games within The Sandbox, creating a diverse selection of user-generated content.
In-Game Controls
When you enter games, in-game control keys or buttons may include:
W, A, S, D keys: Moves your character forward, left, back and right.
Spacebar: Allows your character to jump and helps you reach high places.
Mouse: Used to control the camera and provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings.
Mouse Click: Used to interact with objects or items.
Shift Key: Makes your character sprint.
In-Game Building and Creation
Sandbox offers users the freedom to build and create their worlds.
Using in-game tools and resources, you can create your virtual landscapes.
You can bring your in-game dreams to life by dragging and dropping objects.
Different Metaverse Platforms: The Future of Sandboxing
The future of sandboxing offers exciting opportunities as technology advances and creative potential expands. Here are some examples and projects of the end of Sandboxing:
Artificial Intelligence Integration
Future Sandbox projects could become more intelligent and interactive with artificial intelligence (AI). For example, games can be developed where AI and players control in-game characters experience realistic and dynamic experiences. It allows players to experience different scenarios by interacting with the AI.
Blockchain-Based Virtual Economies
Sandbox projects can create virtual economies with the integration of blockchain technology. For example, users’ in-game assets (e.g. digital pieces of land or characters) can be represented as unique tokens on the blockchain. It means users can use these assets to shop or trade.
Virtual Events and Concerts
In the future, artists and musicians can host virtual concerts and events using Sandbox platforms. Consequently, users can participate in these events with their avatars and experience fascinating experiences in virtual worlds. For instance, one can envision an event where a musical artist performs in a virtual stadium.
Combination of Education and Entertainment:
Sandbox projects used for educational purposes may become more common in the future. Students can reenact historical events, conduct science experiments, or gather in virtual classrooms, making education more interactive and entertaining.
Expanding Creative Community:
Sandbox boasts a constantly growing and evolving creative community. Users can leverage the platform to create and collaborate on others’ projects. For example, the creation of large-scale virtual worlds or games with the participation of numerous users may become more common.
Different Metaverse Platforms: The Value of Sandbox in the Market
Sandboxing, a dynamic and collaborative environment, offers substantial value in the market. Its open-ended nature appeals to various audiences, including the artistic community and the gaming industry. Artists, designers, and architects can utilize the Sandbox as a virtual canvas to showcase their talents, attracting potential clients and collaborators. Simultaneously, the gaming industry benefits from a platform that empowers developers and hobbyists to create and share their unique gaming experiences, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of creativity and innovation. As the demand for immersive digital experiences grows, the value and relevance of the Sandbox in the market only continue to soar.
In conclusion, the Sandbox is a metaverse teeming with endless possibilities for exploration and creation. Whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration or a gamer looking for a platform to bring your ideas to life, Sandbox provides an intuitive and captivating experience. As the virtual reality landscape evolves, the Sandbox is positioned to remain at the forefront, propelling us into a future where imagination knows no bounds.
Different Metaverse Platforms: Other Notable Metaverse Experiences
Cryptovoxels: A Virtual Reality Art Gallery
Cryptovoxels: A Virtual Reality Art Gallery
Thirdly, imagine strolling through a virtual art gallery, surrounded by visually stunning creations that seemingly come to life before your eyes. That’s precisely what Cryptovoxels offers to art enthusiasts. This metaverse allows artists to showcase their talents and visitors to purchase these digital artworks as unique tokens on the blockchain. With its voxel-based aesthetic and a thriving community of artists, Cryptovoxels truly represents the fusion of art and technology.
Somnium Space: Building Your Dreams
Somnium Space: Building Your Dreams
Fourthly, in Somnium Space, you can shape your virtual reality experience by constructing and designing your dream world. Whether you want to create a serene garden, a futuristic cityscape, or even an otherworldly landscape, Somnium Space provides the tools and platform to unleash your creativity. With a focus on user-generated content and a strong emphasis on ownership through blockchain technology, Somnium Space offers a truly immersive and personal metaverse experience.
VRChat: Social Interaction in VR
VRChat: Social Interaction in VR
And finally, if you’re looking for a metaverse emphasizing social interaction and creative expression, VRChat is the place to be. Step into a vibrant and bustling virtual world where you can meet people from all walks of life, engage in real-time conversations, and attend virtual events. VRChat goes beyond mere socializing; it’s a platform where users can unleash their creativity. Featuring a robust user-generated content system, VRChat allows users to create and import their worlds and avatars. This unique feature transforms VRChat into a hub for artistic expression, making it a virtual canvas for users to bring their imaginations to life. From attending virtual concerts to exploring elaborately designed user-generated worlds, VRChat provides not only a social haven but also a space for boundless creativity.
High Fidelity: A Virtual World for Business
High Fidelity takes the metaverse concept slightly differently, initially focusing on its potential for business applications. However, it’s crucial to note that High Fidelity has since undergone a significant pivot. While it once aimed to be a virtual world for general consumers, it has shifted its primary focus to business applications, particularly virtual office spaces. This platform enables companies to hold virtual meetings, conferences, and presentations, offering a convenient and cost-effective alternative to physical gatherings. With realistic avatars and interactive environments, High Fidelity revolutionizes traditional corporate collaboration by providing a seamless virtual workspace for professionals across the globe.
Different Metaverse Platforms: Comparing Decentraland, Sandbox, and Others
Decentraland vs. Sandbox: A Feature Comparison
Decentraland and Sandbox are today’s most prominent and highly anticipated metaverse platforms. While both offer unique virtual experiences, they have notable differences. Decentraland distinguishes itself with a decentralised ownership model and a focus on user-created content. On the other hand, Sandbox stands out with its powerful and intuitive game creation tools, allowing users to build and monetise their virtual experiences easily. Each platform provides its users with distinct features and attracts different communities, ultimately due to personal preferences.
| Aspect | Decentraland | Sandbox |
| Ownership Model | Decentralised, Users have control over virtual land | Centralised, Platform-managed economy |
| Content Creation | User-generated content, Decentraland DAO governance | Powerful and intuitive in-game creation tools |
| Virtual Economy | MANA cryptocurrency, User-driven economy | SANDBOX cryptocurrency, Platform-managed economy |
| Focus | Artistic expression and user-created content | Game creation, monetisation of virtual experiences |
| User Base | Diverse community of artists and creators | Broad user base, appealing to gamers and artists |
| Tehnical Expertise Required | Moderate technical knowledge for landowners | More user-friendly, accessible to a wider audience |
Exploring Specialised Metaverses
Beyond Decentraland and Sandbox, various specialised metaverses cater to specific interests and niches. These include platforms like Upland, which gamifies real estate ownership, and NeoWorld, which offers a virtual economy with investment opportunities. Other metaverses like The Sandbox and Cryptovoxels focus on artistic expression and blockchain-based assets. By exploring these specialised metaverses, users can find a sense of belonging within communities that share their passions and interests.
Pros and Cons of Different Metaverses: A Deeper Dive
While our exploration of various metaverse platforms like Decentraland, Sandbox, and others has touched on their user experiences and unique features, a more expert-level understanding can be gained by delving into the economic models, governance structures, and technological infrastructures that underpin each platform. Decentraland’s decentralised ownership model, for instance, grants users a sense of control but requires a certain technical proficiency. On the other hand, Sandbox, with its centralised economy, offers powerful game-creation tools but raises considerations around limitations. Understanding these intricacies provides a more comprehensive view of how each metaverse operates behind the scenes, catering to the interests of our expert-level audience.
Different Metaverse Platforms: Conclusion
In conclusion, It is an exciting time for metaverses and virtual reality enthusiasts. The wide array of options available, including Decentraland, Sandbox, and several other specialised metaverses, allows users to find the perfect platform to explore and engage with their passions. As the metaverse landscape continues evolving and expanding, we must choose our adventure wisely. So, put on your VR headset, dive into these captivating digital realms, and embrace the ongoing evolution of virtual reality!
