3d fantasy & art in virtual worlds

Entry in Koinup 3d fantasy art contest

They are realities not bound in reality...  fantasies are at the core of dreaming.

As a genre, "fantasy" is loaded with magic, mysteries and supernatural powers.  It's easy to lose yourself within a well crafted novel or movie.


Thanks to recent technology advancements, free-form online worlds are now a perfect platforms to actually live out a fantasy experience - they are open platforms where the only real limitations are in the mind, not in the pixels.

Second Life's powerful 3d creation tools and savvy userbase has led to some stunning fantasy sims where members roleplay and interact both in and out of character.

Other platforms such as IMVU have various groups and 3d rooms devoted to fantasy roleplaying (see one of the many Harry Potter fangroups) and on Frenzoo people can mod sims and make their own fantasy fashion and environments.

Fantasy art on Koinup

Some of the best fantasy art is now on show at Koinup, a cross world community for artists and non-artists alike.

A group has been setup and contest currently live to showcase the best of the best, from all the virtual worlds and also games such as The Sims.  It's well worth the visit to help spark your imaginations..

Anatomy of a web usability test

A regular usability test at the Frenzoo office

In developing a new free 3D avatar community on the web, we've learned the hard way about the critical importance of real life usage feedback.

Web usability testing is a well developed field, yet is a practice we've only adopted in a structured way in past months, and it has been a revelation.

There is something reassuring about developing additions or changes that go to directly solving problem areas identified observing real, unbiased usage. Previous guessing about features best for the Frenzoo user (often well intentioned but misguided) has been replaced by practical improvements.

Previously we would rely on surveys, forum polls and usage stats for user feedback, but whilst useful - it can't tell you why a person doesn't know how to get to the closet from the shop, or how to change skin colors, or how to accept a chat conversation.

Now, we run in-office usability testing every 2 weeks, and it drives the majority of our roadmap. It goes something like this...

1. Recruitment

A week in advance, we make some posts in local active discussion forums looking for people who like games/avatars/internet to spend 2 hours helping try a new site. We don't divulge the name of the site, so as not to bias any of them beforehand - the aim is to see how they react and use the site for the first time.

We offer about $US 23 for the 2 hours or work, which gets a good response - especially from University students who have free spot in their study schedule.

2. The right number of people

We aim to get between 4-6 people each session. Less than that and we can't draw some strong conclusions across the whole group. We also need a balance of guys and girls and enough people so they can chat amongst themselves.

We don't exceed 6 mainly for practical reasons - we don't have enough people to individually watch the participants and make notes on what problems they face.

3. The setup

We equip screen broadcasting software on the participant machines and clear the browser cache and settings to default. We then enable the other team members to be able to see the participants screens so usually 1-2 people can observe "remotely", whilst 1 team member is sitting next to the participant to ask questions, take notes up close and help if they are really stuck.

4. The session


The people arrive, we give them a brief introduction and explain that they should use the website and try to do some things on the site. We make these fairly high level to give them flexibility to see how they should achieve it, and also to not "spell out the instructions" and devalue the test.

For example:
- Go to the website and tell us your first impressions
- Create an account
- Go shopping and make your avatar look great
- Chat with someone and make friends
- Create a cool Tshirt
- Enter a contest

We observe them, and typically only ask questions or give help if they appear stuck or confused: "what are you confused or frustrated about at this moment" etc

After the individual participants trying it themselves for 1 hour or so, there is a 30 minute summary discussion at the end to gather qualitative feedback

5. The debrief

After the participants have left, the team records all the usability problems observed in a shared Google spreadsheet (and any bugs found are also logged) then there is a team discussion to consolidate it. Lots of head nodding and everyone really understanding the issues.

5. The next steps

Then the design team will come up with the improvements suggested, be it new enhancements or UI tweaks, and assigns the priorities to them, and these are then scheduled into our release plan.

Then 2 weeks later we go through it all again, and see how the improvements we have implemented are working out in practice, and what are the next set of problems and opportunities to conquer...

With vSide now gone…what 3D Avatar options are left for Mac users?

Many people in the virtual world of avatars will be sad to see the much adored vSide community go...but after they are gone, what options are left for all of the Mac users out there? Many worlds that use client downloads like IMVU and Twinity don't support Mac. That’s why we’ve decided to take this unfortunate opportunity to do some research and make sure that no users are left out of the mix. The list below is comprised of 3D avatar sites that are compatible with Mac operating systems.

1. Second Life
2. Frenzoo
3. Hangout.net
4. Just Leap In

Second Life

It’s difficult to consider Second life just another avatar community, simply because it is exactly

what the name states – a second life. Second life is a downloaded program that takes users into an expansive virtual world of design, community and creativity. A couple fair warnings before getting to deep into the site, the program can be somewhat slow and since the majority of the users tend to be older the content can be quite mature (sex oriented) at times. The good thing is that they do offer a Teen Second Life also for younger enthusiasts. Although many of the items in the marketplace are free to obtain, it should be noted that most of the popular items among users do require payment in the form of Lindens. Ultimately the choice is up to you for how deep you wish to involve yourself in this Second Life, so go explore and decide for yourself!

Frenzoo

Frenzoo is a new 3D avatar community focussed on lifestyle and creativity. Inside the site, users have the ability to create cool and expressive clothing, accessories, hairstyles and more. Best of all is that content creation is free and easy to use, even for those who have never touched a graphic editor before. Some of the newest features offered to users include creating your own dance moves and pose animations in a fun and easy-to-use creation format, and they even offer features for those of the 3D creators out there. Perhaps the best part is that once you have downloaded a simple plug-in for your browser, no reloading is required, everything is contained within the browser window. Since the age requirement for Frenzoo is 13 and above, this game caters to both younger and older generations alike. Don’t let us spoil all the fun; go check it out for yourself..

Hangout.net

Hangout is a more recent entry in the virtual world space. It supports Mac and is browser based (there is a small plugin to install). It lets you have room and invite friends to chat there. Using the service can be slow to load, although the graphic quality looks great when it comes up. The avatars are cartoony and cute. Like Vside and unlike Second Life and Frenzoo there is no content creation, you need to choose from their predefined items. One problem at the moment though is that there is never anyone else online which makes it tough to find people to chat to.

Just Leap In

Just Leap In is a 3D room based site similar to Hangout, and high quality graphics and even physics (you can play bowling by moving around objects) It has more offline functions like commenting to let you leave messages for others when they are offline. The spaces let you arrange your rooms as you like which can be fun to do and make it look perfect. However as with Hangout, the biggest problem is that there is no one online to chat with, the community has yet to be built up.

As stated before, each of the sites listed above are supportive of the Mac platforms and enthusiasts. Take some time to go explore all that each of them have to offer. Who knows, you might just meet some new friends and a new community that is perfect for you!

Interview on creating a new virtual world

There's a new interview up on 'Inside the Webb' which covers all about how Frenzoo, the 3D avatar style community was designed and got off the ground.

Here's the intro to the piece:

For those in the industry or just interested in the web in general, it's a good read. Check it out.

Top 5 Avatar Sites Offering Free Services and Features

Back on the hunt for finding the top avatar sites, we’ve decided to pick out the top sites offering free services and features to users. Each of the top sites listed here offers something different and unique to users in the world of avatars and design. Whether it is in the form of creation, design, social networking via 3D chat or just the ability to try some different online personalities, these sites will be sure to entertain your imagination without breaking the bank right away!

1. Second Life
2. Frenzoo
3. Meez
4. IMVU
5. Stardoll (2D)

Second Life

Second Life does a great job of allowing users to work, love, shop, explore and play without spending serious amounts of hard-earned cash to do so. The company offers a free online virtual world that is imagined and created by you, its users, for the ultimate customizable experience downloaded right to your desktop. Included in the free membership from Second Life is the ability to customize your own avatar, building opportunities, 3D voice/text chat and membership also includes a sign-up bonus of 250 Linden dollars (Second Life’s form of currency which can also be purchased separately). If you’re lucky, sometimes veteran members of the site will locate newbie’s to not only help them get started on the site but also offer up some articles of clothing to expand on your look! Create your avatar and start exploring today!

Frenzoo

Frenzoo is a unique 3D avatar community for fashion and lifestyle inspired individuals. With your free membership from Frenzoo you can start by shopping or designing your own clothes and accessories to customize your avatar as you wish. The site offers enough free items in the shops to get your adventure started, and also provides video tutorials to get you started creating your own fashion. Frenzoo, along with Second Life are the only Top 5 sites which offer the create feature to its users free of charge, which is a big bonus to users who are interested in trying out their skills at designing their own fashions. It should also be noted that the creation process is much more user friendly and less intensive than the process offered by Second Life. Meet new friends, customize your avatar, open your own shop, decorate your home and share it all on your personal profile. Below is a picture of the ‘create’ function that allows users to dream and create their own fashions. You can also refer to the chart of pricing below to get a better understanding of the cost breakdown for Frenzoo and the other sites listed. Frenzoo was an easy pick for a spot in the Top 5!

Meez Online Community

The Meez online community is another great free option for users looking to expand their imagination in an online virtual avatar experience. The Meez nation is an online collection of ‘neighborhoods’ serving numerous interests and groups of users. The free membership offered includes the ability to experience the virtual world, customize your own avatar, and play games and converse with others in the forums. Meez is also the only site listed in the top 5 that does not offer any type of user generated content.

Similar to other sites listed here, Meez offers a form of currency for sale that can be used to purchase new items for your avatar and further your creative imagination, although they are not required to start your adventure today!

IMVU

IMVU is the only option listed in the top 5 that does not currently offer support for Mac users, but they do have some great features that are free of charge for all of you PC users out there. In IMVU users are able to create their own Avatar and chat in a 3D experience. Also included in the free membership to the site is the ability to customize your own homepage. Unfortunately many of the options in the marketplace on the site require purchasing, and users are only given one set of clothes or outfit upon registering for a new user account. If you, the user, are interested in expanding your look or wardrobe, coins will need to be purchased in order to do so. The choice is up to you!

Stardoll (2D)

Stardoll currently lays claim to offering the largest online community for girls who

are interested in fashion, shopping, decorating, creativity and making new friends from around the world. Free features of the site include the ability to customize your MeDoll avatar, shop for new items, play dress up and decorate your own suite. Membership on the site is free, but again similarly to some of the other Top 5 sites listed, they offer the choice to purchase more of their currency dubbed ‘stardollars’ for expanded purchasing and customization options. Many of the free items offered in the shop are of basic design, with some of the nicer and detailed items reserved for users with VIP status or costing coins.

Item cost/payment breakdown

Well, there you have the Top 5 avatar sites offering free services and features to you; the creative and imaginative users. We are confident that you will find something of interest to you and hope that this article helps you in your adventures, so go check them out and make some new friends in the process! Enjoy!!

Avatars and Identity - a chat with Heidi aka Stylite

One of the fascinating parts about running a 3D avatar community where you can create your own virtual style is seeing the interaction between avatar and their owners real life identities.

To be honest, when Frenzoo first launched its beta, we weren't really sure what to expect but now we have built a community of members its interesting to see the actual behaviors at play.

Whilst there are many enjoying pure dress up, avatar roleplaying and fantasy elements, we have seen a LOT of crossover between real life and their 3D style on the site. I guess thinking about it it makes a lot of sense - the driver of self expression and showing a unique identity remains important in a virtual social environment as a real one.

Heidi Ulrich, one of the active members on the community under her avatar name Stylite (picture above) shared her thoughts:

Welcome, tell us a bit about yourself in real-life?
Hi! I'm a 25-year old girl from The Netherlands. In daily life, I'm a student in the field of Concept Design. I'm about to graduate, and then I'll be Bachelor of Arts. But I'm interested in far more than arts only. I'm often busy with computers and graphic design and I try my luck on all kinds of hobbies, like dancing, singing, photography. Lately I have developed a 'passion for fashion'!
How did you find out about Frenzoo?
Recently, my mom started a blog. To support her, I read every little piece she wrote. One day she blogged about having entered a summer dress design contest. Eager to join, I Googled for the contest. Frenzoo.com was the first hit. I forgot about the design contest and signed up :)

What attracts you to stay and get involved in this avatar community?
Well as I said, I like to try my luck on all kinds of art forms. I have tried clothing design in reallife, but me and my sewing machine don't go so well together. So my creativity was kind of blocked at that point, until I found Frenzoo. Another benefit is the 3D engine. I often work with 3D in Cinema4D and I have once done an attempt to create clothes with it. But there's so much technical stuff to overcome before you can start on the actual design - it just kills the spirit. On Frenzoo, the templates, the Unity engine: it's all there. I can focus on the design rightaway.

So is there a connection between your virtual character and reallife?
Yes, I think there is.

I had - and have - no wish to create a dream doll. My avatar is my dressdoll, and in a way, she represents me. The avatars are not dramatically skinny or have weird 'attractive' deformations. Lately, I have been playing with my avatars looks for a bit; I have tried on different hairstyles and clothes that I wouldn't wear in reallife. And now comes the funny part: by mixing and matching clothes on my avatar I have discovered some new styles that I actually fancy to wear in reallife. And, when I go shopping, I often see things that I'd like to customize for Frenzoo.

So you see, it works both ways!

Thanks a lot Heidi !

I'd love your comment on this or suggestions for future topics. Feel free to leave a note.

2009 World Intraverse awards and thinking about usability

Last week I had the interesting pleasure to be invited into an event in Second Life celebrating the winners of the 2009 World Intraverse Awards.

Our 3D Fashion Game for Girls, Frenzoo was one of the winners, awarded a Special Mention of the WIVA jury as the "most global 3D fashion centric achievement", and we were one of two companies from Asia in the winning group and addressing the crowd, the other being China virtual world - HiPiHi

"Frenzoo's achievements led us to believe that soon it will turn into one of the most efficient 3D platform in the world" - Gilbert Reveillon, President of the Jury

The award was certainly an honor but also an interesting experience to be attending the ceremony in world. There were several technical hitches, 2 changes of locations involving confusion around teleporting vs trying to follow the ceremony leaders in walking there. One of the speakers was speaking too soft for anyone to hear, another way to loud and triggering the red on the UI speech icons.. many couldn't get their in-world speech going at all. It was all rather lighthearted and amusing at the time but highlighted a key point of usability.

Second Life is a particularly deep and powerful open experience and deserves its success - but is it mainstream for those who are not at the upper end of technology proficiency? In it's current state, I would argue not. For all the possibilities, many typical people would give up after a short attempt, confused by the whole experience. Which is no doubt why they are putting effort into revamping the interface this year.

It's something we also grapple with in our own community - how can we make it easier to get people into the front door? whether they come in direct, through our avatar blog. And make it easier for them to have their first interactions in a painless and fun way that's easy to pick up for a new or returning member...

Not easy at all to get a newbie friendly interface - and we're learning valuable lessons from our experience and constantly improving. However it's vital - the the most important thing to get right in a virtual worlds product, and rightfully at the top of the priority list...