What is the Metaverse?
The term "metaverse" wasn't coined by Meta, but its origins date back to the 1992 cyberpunk novel "Snow Crash." In this book, the metaverse was conceived as a three-dimensional digital world, a parallel universe where people can interact in a variety of ways. If you're intrigued by this idea, read on to learn how to access different types of metaverses.
How to Access Any Metaverse
You don't always need a virtual reality (VR) headset to enter a metaverse, although one can enhance the experience. If you're new to the concept and want to fully immerse yourself, explore the various VR headsets on the market to find the one that best suits your needs.
The Meta Universe: How to Enter
Meta has clearly expressed its intention to develop a rich and interactive metaverse. While Horizon Worlds, the app through which Meta plans to launch its metaverse, is still in development, it's known that it will require the use of a VR headset, such as the Oculus Quest 2. The developers are also looking for content creators to develop augmented reality experiences.
Requirements to Access the Metaverse of Meta
There are a few preliminary considerations for accessing the Meta universe. You'll need a Facebook account to participate. If you don't have one, now's a good time to create one so you're ready when the service becomes available globally.
Discover The Sandbox: The Blockchain Metaverse
The Sandbox was originally just a smartphone game, but Animoca Brands transformed it into a blockchain metaverse. In the Sandbox, creators can monetize their digital assets, develop games, and sell them on the internal marketplace.
How to Create an Account on The Sandbox
Go to The Sandbox's official website and click "Sign In" in the top right corner. A variety of login options will appear, including Bitski, Facebook, Twitter, Google, and Metamask. Select your preferred method and follow the steps to complete registration.
What You Can Do on The Sandbox Now
The Sandbox is currently in alpha. But stay tuned! The developers will announce the next season's arrival, and you'll be able to participate in testing and hands-on play.
Buying Land on The Sandbox
If you're interested in owning a piece of this digital universe, you can purchase "land" in the metaverse. This allows you to host events, sell assets, and much more. But remember, you don't necessarily need to own land to enjoy The Sandbox.
What is Decentraland?
Decentraland is a unique metaverse governed by a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO). This means that the metaverse is controlled by its users, who hold digital assets within the virtual world. Users have the ability to vote on various issues, such as regulations, land prices, and content moderation. The system is powered by the MANA cryptocurrency and requires a digital wallet to access all services.
System requirements
Before diving into the world of Decentraland, make sure you have everything you need. For now, you don't need a VR headset. All you need is a computer, a web browser, and a reliable internet connection.
Login Steps
- Go to the Website: Navigate to the official Decentraland website.
- Choose How to Play: Click on “Get Started” and then on “Play using your wallet” if you have a digital wallet. If you want to explore as a guest, click on “Play as guest”.
Creation of the Avatar
Once you have chosen how to log in, you will be faced with the avatar creation page. Here you can customize various aspects of your virtual character.
- Skin Tone Selection: Choose your preferred skin tone.
- Definition of Style: Click on the different categories such as “Head”, “Top”, “Bottom”, “Shoes” and “Accessories” to change the appearance of your avatar.
Press “Done” when you're done.
Name and Email
After creating your avatar, enter the name you'd like to use in Decentraland. If you'd like, you can also enter your email address to subscribe to the newsletter and stay up-to-date on metaverse news.
Acceptance of the Terms
To proceed, you will need to accept the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Scroll to the bottom and click on “I Agree” to continue.
Welcome to Decentraland
Once registration is complete, you will be transported to Genesis Plaza. You can control your avatar using WASD keys and mouse. Press “V” to change the view and spacebar to jump.
Socialize and Explore
Decentraland isn't just a game, it's also a social platform. By pressing the "T" key, you can activate your microphone and start communicating with other users in the metaverse.
How to Leave and Return
When you log out of Decentraland, your avatar will remain saved. You'll be able to pick up where you left off the next time you log in. However, to become a full member with additional privileges, you'll need to connect a digital wallet.
Remember, if you are new to cryptocurrencies, proceed with caution before making any purchases of land or digital assets.
