Online Virtual Reality "Getaway" Introduced

At CES 2003, manufacturer There, Inc. unveiled a three-dimensional virtual reality online "digital Club Med" 'metaverse' known as 'There,' where visitors, or 'guests,' can communicate (by voice or by text), play, shop and explore exotic surroundings or just simply relax and do nothing. The characters in the metaverse are avatars and other science fictional creatures created with AI that gives them more sophisticated and realistic actions and language capability. While virtual reality programs are not new, online services such as Xbox Live and games such as "The Sims Online," have just begun to tap into the exploding niche of live online role-playing. There Inc. representatives say their online getaway metaverse differs from The Sims Online, as Sims Online is a game where the players have to actively participate in the well being of their avatars' comfort, health, energy, etc., which can be task intensive. In There, the players can do nearly anything they want. The AI allows the avatars to explore their virtual world, make friends, chat or just meditate in a magnificently serene and exotic place. There's CEO, Tom Melcher, said, "There is not just a new way to communicate. It's an online place with real-world physics, natural scenery and sounds, and the ability to interact freely with people and objects."

There does reportedly have some 'safety' controls built in as to what the avatars can do. They can't touch, except to kiss, and can't remove their clothing or lie down together. There hopes to appeal to women, as most online games are more traditionally attractive to men. Yet to be determined is whether users would pay for this online "getaway" site, and if so, how much. There reportedly felt a $10 monthly subscription fee might be appropriate, although There has not ruled out earning points for participation on the Web site in lieu of a subscription fee.

There Inc., is inviting consumers to publicly test There, by going to their Web site, www.there.com , and registering. We are so There!! We can hear the surf and the seagulls on the beach now.