Lively.com - Google Gone Virtual

So, it’s official, Google has gone SecondLife and built its own virtual world. Well, sort of. It’s actually a virtual world add-on. And, it’s browser based (which isn’t exactly great for SecondLife). Google’s virtual world has the unfortunate title of Lively but it does make Gtalk a lot more, well lively. You can embed worlds into your own web page and view them. Or just use what Google’s got—sample rooms that are easily customizable. Create your own avatars, make them talk, dance, punch, kick--whatever your heart desires. Or even make your own world/room without using Google’s molds. You chat using Google’s GTalk. Currently, it only works for Windows on IE and Firefox. Mac and Linux will have to wait a little longer as is customary. But it’s browser based. Nothing to download. Just enjoy.

“Lively is a browser based virtual world add-on that lets users create and customize avatars and worlds, as well as interact with other users”

Lively promises to be the next big competitor of SecondLife. It looks promising and with Google’s genius behind it, it ought to be a sight to behold.

Will it catch on? Or will it remain a niche territory like SecondLife? Will it cause controversy?