For this assignment, I downloaded Second Life and selected an avatar. It was difficult to change my avatar to represent myself so this was the best I could find. It took me a while to find the options to change the customization of my avatar but I settled for this because the avatar was a good representation of me. In the image, my avatar is very calm and posed casually, which in my opinion is the way I am.New media allows individuals to be creative as possible and change/edit anything they don't like, which is different from real life. By creating these avatars in the virtual world, many people are able to either create an avatar that represents them or disguise themselves as someone else or someone they want to be. Some people find an escape in these virtual worlds and feel that they can remain anonymous behind these avatars. However, for the most part, these avatars create a sense of belonging or connection for users when they're playing games and such. In the end, users become more engaged in the game and feel like they're actually in the virtual realm.
I also downloaded the Kim Kardashian: Hollywood mobile app and created an avatar. I personalized my avatar to represent myself as much as possible, however, my options were very limited. There were very few options to customize an avatar including the hair, eyes, nose, lips, and clothes. The game was set-up so that you would buy (with real cash) or earn (money in the game) as you progress and "work" in the game. The animations or facial expressions that my avatar shows in the game is also limited, with the very few poses such as the one shown in the image. Overall, I found this game pretty engaging for many reasons such as:
- There were goals to complete (the more goals you complete, the more money you earn and more popular you get as a celebrity)
- The clothes and all the glamorous things are an escape from real life.
Hi Yvonne!
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I created an avatar for this assignment as well. I remember when everyone went crazy for the Kim Kardashian app when it first came out, did you like the overall app? Will you be keeping it or just using it for this assignment? I actually did not know how the app works but it makes sense that you have to "earn" cash in order to develop your character.
I have to agree with you that people go into these virtual worlds to get away from real life. I think at times it could be nice to get away, but at the same time it's important not to lose touch with reality.
I told myself I would never download that app. But funny enough my nieces and even some of my friends (age 22, 23) have downloaded the app. It is very interactive and its a tiny virtual little world. DO you plan to keep playing in the future?
ReplyDeleteHey,
ReplyDeleteThis was an awesome post. The new media apps that you mentioned is very similar to the games that I know my baby cousins used to play. They were able to edit characters and avatars from television shows and movies. They are able to paint and design the avatars different colors. Its a great way for children to use their creativity!!