In the context of
video games, a multiverse can refer to:
* a multiverse virtual world or MetaGalaxy:
a collection of interconnected
virtual worlds that allows users to travel within and between these virtual worlds.
* multiverse video game: a collection of video games similar to an endless arcade
The term is used to describe multigame
massively multiplayer online games, that provide players with access to many instances of, often
user-generated
User-generated content (UGC), alternatively known as user-created content (UCC), is any form of content, such as images, videos, text, testimonials, and audio, that has been posted by users on online platforms such as social media, discussion f ...
,
subgames. These multigame massively multiplayer online games share some features with the
Metaverse while lacking others.
There is no clear distinction between multiverse video games and
sandbox video games that allow players to create and share creations with other players.
Sharded virtual worlds, for example ''
Ultima Online'', are similar to multiverse virtual worlds, and sharded virtual worlds occasionally have been described as multiverses. However, travel and communication between instances of sharded virtual worlds (so-called “shards”) are usually less well supported than in typical multiverse video games and often require a server transfer of a player's character.
Features
A common feature of multiverse video games is the possibility to access subgames without leaving the multiverse game. Optional features include a virtual "lobby" that serves as starting point or hub to access subgames, the ability of players to choose and customize an
avatar that is used in subgames, the ability of players to communicate with other players of the multiverse even if they are not in the same shared virtual world, and the ability of players to contribute
user-generated content to the multiverse, e.g., virtual objects, avatars, or virtual worlds.
[
]
Origin
Several popular massively multiplayer online games have been compared to the Metaverse due to their wide range of user-generated virtual worlds,persistent worlds
Persistent may refer to:
* Persistent data
* Persistent data structure
* Persistent identifier
* Persistent memory
* Persistent organic pollutant
* Persistent Systems, a technology company
* USS ''Persistent'', three United States Navy ships ...
and lack seamless long-distance travel. Furthermore, instead of providing a single virtual world shared by all players, these games provide multiple instances of virtual worlds that are shared by a limited number of players. Popular examples include '' Roblox'', '' Minecraft'', '' Fortnite Creative'', '' VRChat'', ''Rec Room
A recreation room (also known as a rec room, rumpus room, play room, playroom, games room, or ruckus room) is a room used for a variety of purposes, such as parties, games and other everyday or casual activities. The term ''recreation room'' is ...
'', etc. The term “multiverse” is used to simultaneously communicate similarities and differences between these video games and the concept of the Metaverse.[ A notable example of this use is ''Manticore Games’'' description of their video game '' Core'' as multiverse][ or “creator multiverse”.]
See also
* Metaverse
* Sandbox game
* Video game
* Virtual world
References
{{reflist
Video game genres