The hype around Second Life
Disclaimer: Barely any game-based learning in this blog entry, just serious gaming.
I’m not exactly sure why, but all my reading regarding serious games this last couple of weeks has been solidly returning Second Life hits. This blog reflected on IBM’s approach, with employees meeting in Second Life and with its CEO, Sam Palmisano, appearing in the game for a press conference with his own avatar. In fact, that information had previously been covered by Reuters on its permanent section devoted to Second Life . IBM is also trying concepts and holding events within Second Life.
More or less at the same time, Dell announces an in-game store where you can see your computer, configure it, and customise it. When you’re satisfied with the product, you pay and you get it shipped home. I haven’t been able to find out whether you also get a virtual computer to install in your virtual home, which would be a cool (and very cheap for Dell) gift for the customers. In any case the idea is great. It theoretically cuts down prices and provides a more attractive experience. And, even if it does not cut those prices, it gets you a heck of a PR-impact.
Same thing goes for Pontiac, opening Motorati Island in Second Life where they will be selling virtual models of their Solstice brand. I can imagine the potential should they try the same approach as Dell. Come, design your car, throw in the accessories, have a virtual test-drive and then purchase the real car. Our valet will drive it to your doorstep. In case the PR hype, plus the in-game car sales do not provide enough ROI, Pontiac will be renting lots in Motorati Island to companies and individuals willing to establish their own car-culture-oriented business in the island (I wonder if that includes competitors). BTW, both Toyota and Nissan are already doing this, let’s not assume novelty where there is not. The impact here is the sheer size of Pontiac’s initative and the amount of marketing they are dumping in the news.
And in the very same week, learning within Second Life, although not a new idea, is showcased in CNN regarding online education and virtual universities.
So, does this seem like enough hype around a concept? I think the PR people at Linden Labs must be having a huge party. Probably inside the game.
