Are Mirror Worlds Mirroring the Real World?
So let’s begin this post with a brief and simple definition of a Mirror World (MW for short): Mirror worlds are virtual spaces that model physical space. Now with that out of the way let’s further say that mirror worlds are the reflection of the real world.
Is it possible and is the sense of realism really there yet? Let me add in this disclaimer: It depends upon the platform. Some platforms that I have dabbled in have really failed to impress, while others tend to leave a good taste in my mouth. Perhaps the more popularly known mirror world is Google Earth (a free, web-based, open-standards digital map of Earth). However, I have been pretty impressed with Twinity which couches itself as: A 3D mirror world based on real cites and real people. The first cities developed thus far in the Twinity app. are Berlin and Singapore. Virtual Berlin for instance offers a full array of shops, galleries, cafés, bars, etc. With more to come in 2009 from Twinity- Orchard Road and Marina Bay are on deck for future release.
Would potential VW users more willingly adapt to the whole idea of virtual worlds if they were more closely mirrored after the real world? Maybe so.
What are some of the benefits of mirror world environments?
-Connecting the real to the virtual world – Mixed Reality
-Reflection of reality
-Offer compelling visuals and more realistic environments
-Virtual tourism/ In-world attractions
-Ability to bring real-world businesses into a virtual environment
-Educational relevance
-Mission planning/execution
Look for more mirror worlds to emerge in the future. I vote for them as I would much rather visit Berlin virtually and avoid all the hassles of missed flight connections and lost luggage. Virtual Berlin here I come!
[...] on the Virtual Speak blog, there’s a post called “Are mirror worlds mirroring the real world?&#…. The discussion of Twinity is very encouraging to hear: However, I have been pretty impressed with [...]