Before the emergence of the modern metaverse, there was Second Life. For the past two decades, this online multimedia platform has allowed players to create avatars and live in a virtual world full of possibilities. While other metaverse titles have come and gone, Second Life has remained standing, attracting a diverse audience of all ages. We had the opportunity to speak with Grumpity Linden, the VP of product at Second Life, to learn more about why the game has stood the test of time and how it is adapting to the changing landscape by going mobile.

What Sets Second Life Apart?

According to Grumpity Linden, Second Life has always been at the forefront of innovation. It pioneered the concept of virtual cultures, communities, and economies, giving players the ability to live the lives they desire and even monetize their creations. This continuity of presence and connection, coupled with its ever-evolving nature, has kept players engaged for the past 20 years.

Bringing Second Life to Mobile

While there have been previous attempts to bring Second Life to mobile, the main challenge has always been delivering the beauty and complexity of the game on a smaller device. However, technological advancements have now made it possible to optimize the game for mobile devices. By building on Unity, Second Life can ensure that the mobile version remains performant while retaining the immersive experience of the desktop version.

The Goal of Going Mobile

Second Life aims to be wherever its residents want to go. By offering a seamless experience between desktop and mobile, the game allows existing users to stay connected, encourages disengaged players to return, and introduces new audiences to the wonders of virtual worlds. The team at Second Life is excited to bring the mobile version to current and future residents, expanding the reach and impact of the game.

Mobile Experience vs. PC Version

While the mobile version of Second Life will provide a similar experience, there will be some differences. Content creators, who play a vital role in the game, will still prefer to do most of their work on the desktop version. However, they will be able to stay connected with their crew and customers through the mobile version. Additionally, there are plans to develop mobile-first features that may eventually find their way into the desktop experience.

Upcoming Updates

One of the exciting projects on the horizon for Second Life is the adoption of the GLTF standard. This will expand the content and commercial opportunities for creators, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement within the community.

Release Date

Second Life will be available on both Android and iOS devices, with a closed beta targeted for the fourth quarter.