Virtual world pioneer Second Life celebrates its 20th birthday this week. Created by Linden Lab founder Philip Rosedale in 2003, Second Life has evolved into one of the largest 3D virtual worlds to explore.
The platform provides residents with the opportunity to enhance and augment their physical lives by connecting them to thousands of engaging environments and communities. Second Life currently boasts more than 73 million accounts with about 750,000 monthly active users as it aims to provide a safe space for its residents to express their authentic selves.
Rosedale said, “When we first shared Second Life with the world in 2003, we had one mission in mind: to create a positive, enriching experience for its residents. While others continue to try, no other company has come close to building a world like Second Life.
“This would not be possible without the talented and endlessly inventive residents of Second Life, who have built communities dedicated to every conceivable interest,” continued the Linden Lab founder. “We’re excited for what is to come over the next 20 years as we continue to evolve, and we’re excited to welcome new generations to the world.”
In-world activities and events
With its thriving economy, Second Life also allows thousands of creators around the globe to profit from selling virtual items and services on the Second Life marketplace with over 1.6 million daily transactions.
There are numerous activities as well as events to enjoy within the virtual world including live music performances, community exhibition spaces, global and national sweepstakes, premium membership subscriptions, commemorative merchandise, a world documentary video on Second Year’s first 20 years and more.
“We’re proud and humbled by how our hundreds of thousands of residents have created positive, supportive, and accepting communities within Second Life,” said Brad Oberwager, CEO and Executive Chairman of Second Life. “We look forward to continuing to be a leader in virtual world and metaverse innovations.”
The platform recently revealed its plans to launch a mobile application as well as a partnership with record label Motown Records and music integration platform Styngr.
Isa Muhammad is a writer and video game journalist covering many aspects of entertainment media including the film industry. He's steadily writing his way to the sharp end of journalism and enjoys staying informed. If he's not reading, playing video games or catching up on his favourite TV series, then he's probably writing about them.
