Formerly known as Worlds Chat, WorldsPlayer takes text-based communication on the 'net to the next level by providing users with 3-Dimensional Avatars that interact in a multi-user 3-D community. The community itself is much like the VRML Web sites once expected back in the late 90s (that never really materialized) — in fact, the WorldsPlayer model may well be the best prototype for a VRML model we've seen so far.
When the program first loads, you enter the Avatar Gallery and select one of more than forty possible Avatars. You can even design your own Avatars in the newer releases. You're next connected to the Worlds server and your Avatar is placed within the 3-D dungeonesque environment. A variety of different landscaped worlds and tons of hidden secrets can be explored from within WorldsPlayer.
Upon entering the space world, you can either venture into the unknown or converse with other Avatars. While exploring quickly grows old, the conversations are never dull. WorldsPlayer is similar in this respect to apps like Virtual Places and Active Worlds Browser.
While both releases of WorldsPlayer are restricted to only text-based communication, future products from Worlds.com, Inc. are expected to incorporate voice-based communication as well. While not the most useful 'net app available, WorldsPlayer is quite unique and definitely merits checking out.
Pros: Living vicariously through an Avatar in a 3-Dimensional 'net world
Cons: Text-based conversation only, the space station is the only available world
Pros: Living vicariously through an Avatar in a 3-Dimensional 'net world
Cons: Somewhat outdated technology, no major updates in several years
