Identity in the Context of Virtual World

I found virtual identity to be very interesting, ever since i started taking computer courses that required me to use virtual worlds. Something that I have learned in virtual worlds is how limited one person may be to creating an avatar that is similar to the players physical characteristics. I was not surprised to read that some virtual gamers do not create their avatar to look similar to themselves. Entering the virtual world is like entering a world where you can completely start fresh with no judgment because no one knows who you really are.

(Meshmoon)

 When Yee explained that in her studies she noticed that introverts personalized their avatar to look more like themselves it was a bit shocking. I would think that those who like to keep to themselves would want to create an avatar that is their complete opposite. Whether that be with looks or with personality. Since introverts like to create avatars that fit who they really are i would guess that the gamers personality would be more out going and feel more comfortable chatting with people who they do not know.

(MineCraft)

As I mentioned before all avatar settings are different in each world. When I used Meshmoon i was limited given limited options to my avatar that all depended on which world i entered. When i used MineCraft or even Second life all options were different. But i would say that when using Second life i did feel as though i was entering a real world. It is really easy to chat with different people and the different worlds look very real and the avatars act very real.

(Make a Human)

Another big piece to identity and virtual worlds is how society can poetry what the "perfect image" is. Some people grow up with the a certain knowledge or opinion to how others should act or look. When people grow up not being able to express how they would actually like to be as a person whether that's with personality or with looks. They seek outside opportunities to try out different options. Just like the professor from South Korea, his avatar was of a little girl. That in itself might show some characteristics of the professor or even show desires that he never had.

(Second Life)

In all, the study of virtual identity can show or prove a lot about the gamer. Although it is not psychological I do believe that it has a lot to do with desire. Desire to be a "person" that a gamer can not show in their everyday life. As virtual worlds start to advance I do believe that it will attract more and more people to use virtual worlds as an outlet to their real life.