Exploring the Virtual Space in the Metaverse: A Case Study Analysis
Abdulsamad Alkhalidi, M. Izani, Aishah Abdul Razak, Fauzan Mustafa · 2023
Metaverse platforms, such as Second Life, VR Chat, and Sansar, have gained significant popularity as immersive, customizable virtual environments. This study aimed to analyze and compare these platforms based on immersion, customization, and user experience, utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including personal experience, observation, data collection from journals, research proceedings, and available documentation. The findings reveal that each platform has unique strengths and weaknesses, including performance and stability issues, limited customization options, complex interfaces, cost and accessibility, realism, and community and social features. The study proposes several potential future improvements, including enhancing realism and immersion, improving customization options, enhancing social and community aspects, examining potential uses and applications, and investigating ethical and societal implications. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights for designers, developers, and researchers seeking to enhance user experience in virtual environments. The proposed future improvements have the potential to enhance the functionality and design of Metaverse platforms, leading to a better user experience. These findings can contribute to the development of high-quality virtual environments, with implications for a wide range of applications, including education, entertainment, and social interaction.