As we enter into the year 2023, the future of Metaverse Platforms appears brighter than ever. The demand for immersive virtual experiences is higher than ever, with different metaverses like Roblox frequented by 58.8 million daily active players. Brands like Nike, Gucci, Zara, and Adidas have all adopted different strategies to enter the Metaverse, recognizing the potential it shows for connecting with customers through virtual storefronts that offer customized experiences. The demand for digital collectibles is also on the rise, which has led to the release of limited-edition avatar customization accessories and more by brands.
The article provides an in-depth overview of some of the best Metaverse Platforms and their exciting features in 2023. The Metaverse refers to a “virtual” world consisting of interactive 3D elements where users can shop, interact, play and more. Some Metaverses can be accessed via VR, such as Roblox, Decentraland, Horizon Worlds. Roblox, Upland, Sandbox, and Decentraland are some of the best Metaverses in 2023.
Metaverse and its types
The Metaverse is a shared 3D space where users can interact, work, shop and play virtually. Users can enter these virtual spaces using VR and explore customized immersive environments using “avatars.” Currently, several Metaverses exist, each utilizing its virtual currency to allow users to perform transactions online. Some platforms also provide 3D development tools to facilitate 3D content creation. Users can also list their creations for sale in different marketplaces. With rising demand around digital collectibles and virtual land, the Metaverse has enabled many users to earn by selling virtual land, creating avatar accessories, and more.
There are two types of Metaverses, i.e., Centralized Metaverses and Blockchain Metaverses. Traditional Centralized Metaverses include GTA 5, Roblox, and more. These Metaverses do not incorporate Blockchain into their system and are controlled by a “centralized” entity. Currently, these Metaverses boast the highest number of users, as Blockchain-based Metaverses are still evolving. Decentralized Blockchain Metaverses represent the newest shift in virtual worlds as users seek more control over their online experiences. These Metaverses utilize smart contracts to build rules by providing the power to make decisions to the users of the Metaverse. These Metaverses utilize different cryptocurrencies to establish virtual economies.
The 10 Best Metaverses
1. Upland Metaverse
Upland metaverse is a blockchain-based virtual world that enables users to purchase, sell, or trade virtual properties based on real-world addresses. Upland is an exciting blend of the physical and virtual worlds, allowing users to explore and own “land” in their preferred cities in a new and innovative way. Users can purchase and sell virtual properties through various products, such as the Upland app for iOS and Android, and a web-based version of the game that can be accessed from any internet-connected device. The Upland marketplace allows users to trade virtual properties with each other and purchase premium in-game items. Upland is constantly developing new features and projects to enhance the user experience. The Upland Metaverse aims to create a seamless experience across multiple virtual worlds by allowing users to bring their Upland properties into other games and virtual worlds.
2. Roblox Metaverse
Roblox is a massive game development and online gaming platform that enables users to build and play games produced by other players. David Baszucki and Erik Cassel created Roblox in 2004 and formally launched it in 2006. With over 56 million daily active users, Roblox is one of the biggest Metaverse platforms. This metaverse platform offers a variety of products, including games, virtual items, and virtual currency. Users can create and sell virtual clothing, accessories, and avatar animations. The virtual currency, Robux, can be used to purchase virtual items, access premium features, and pay for game passes.
3. The Sandbox Metaverse
The Sandbox is a decentralized, community-driven virtual world that makes use of blockchain technology to allow players to create, share, and monetize their content. The platform uses its SAND cryptocurrency to facilitate trade and transactions within the virtual world’s economy. One of the defining features of The Sandbox is its voxel-based editor, which enables users to create 3D games and experiences with ease. The Sandbox also supports NFTs, which means that players can create unique assets and sell them in the virtual marketplace.
4. Decentraland Metaverse
Decentraland is another blockchain-based virtual world that allows users to create, experience, and monetize their content in a community-driven environment. The Metaverse is divided into “LAND” parcels, which are non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that users can buy, sell, and develop. Decentraland runs on the Ethereum blockchain and uses MANA cryptocurrency to facilitate trade and transactions within the virtual world’s economy.
5. Horizon Worlds
Horizon Worlds is a VR platform that enables users to create and share their virtual worlds without any coding experience. The platform features a user-friendly drag and drops interface that makes 3D creation simple and intuitive. Users can create games, simulations, virtual events, and more, and share them with friends or the entire Horizon Worlds community. Horizon Worlds also hosts a marketplace where creators can sell their virtual creations for cryptocurrency.
6. NeoWorld Metaverse
NeoWorld is a blockchain-based virtual world that enables users to buy, sell, and trade virtual assets in a decentralized economy. The Metaverse is divided into virtual cities, each with its unique properties and attributes. Users can buy virtual land, build virtual homes and businesses, and trade virtual assets in the NeoWorld marketplace. The platform features its NWTC and NASH cryptocurrencies, which are used to facilitate trade and transactions within the Metaverse’s economy.
7. High Fidelity Metaverse
High Fidelity is a VR platform that enables users to create and share VR experiences with other users. The platform features a spatial audio engine that provides realistic sound for a more immersive experience. High Fidelity enables users to create their avatars and interact with others in shared VR spaces. High Fidelity is also open-source, which means that developers can create their plugins and integrations to extend the platform’s functionality.
8. Somnium Space Metaverse
Somnium Space is a VR platform that enables users to create, play, and monetize their VR experiences. Somnium Space utilizes its SOMN cryptocurrency to facilitate trade and transactions within the virtual world’s economy. The platform features a voxel-based editor that enables users to create unique 3D content quickly. Somnium Space also supports NFTs, which means that users can create unique assets and sell them in the virtual marketplace.
9. Second Life Metaverse
Second Life is a long-standing virtual world that enables users to create, explore, and monetize their content. The platform features its virtual economy, which uses the Linden Dollar currency. Users can buy virtual land, create their homes and businesses, and sell virtual goods and services within the Second Life marketplace. Second Life also supports NFTs, which enables users to create and sell unique assets.
10. VRChat Metaverse
VRChat is a VR platform that enables users to create, share, and monetize their VR experiences. VRChat features a user-friendly world editor that makes creating VR environments accessible to everyone. The platform features a wide range of interactive and social experiences, from exotic destinations to music concerts and game shows. VRChat also supports a VRChat SDK that enables developers to create their plugins and integrations.
Conclusion
The Metaverse is forecasted to experience continued growth and innovation, with multiple Metaverse platforms competing for users’ attention. Upland, Roblox, The Sandbox, Decentraland, Horizon Worlds, NeoWorld, High Fidelity, Somnium Space, Second Life, and VRChat are some of the best Metaverse platforms in 2023. Each platform offers its unique features and functionality, allowing users to create, share, and monetize their content in a shared virtual environment.
