The world is easy enough for kids to learn. They start by logging in with the permission of a parent. Then they pick an avatar from among a wide variety of colorful cartoon animals. They can play mini-games within the world, such as floating down a river and dodging rocks. Next, they get to wander into a lobby and learn how to type-chat. They can go to a post office to send one-way messages to people in the outside world (such as parents). The messages can be used to support a cause, like getting people to help the environment in honor of Earth Day

The world is pretty cute, but could it stands versus giants suck Neopets, Webkinz and Club Penguin?

Young players can choose one of cartoon characters and like in Webkinz world they can walk around the world, buy stuff, talk with others, watch movies and play games. All that activity need points. To prevent inappropriate behavior all chat is just picking statements from a list instead of typing them. The graphic is really cool and very enjoyable by young ones.

Looks like the world creators haven’t anything “new” in mind but they claim, that beta-testing was very successful.

Also, they say that:

VizWoz is the most dynamic and realistic virtual world for teens offering entertainment, interaction and advanced game play. With the combination of unprecedented flash animation and innovative technology, created by our strong team, the service aims to produce a catalyst for interaction and virtual entertainment. It is also the first virtual community to have its own online virtual police force ? the VizCops! The moderation process is extremely advanced, provided by key word screening, artificial intelligence and human moderation. Enforcement is either automatic (3 strikes and out), or by the VizCops ? the online VizWoz police force who patrol the community and will be available at any time to offer immediate assistance.

Read Nic Mitham original research

Some time ago, Toy maker Spin Master’s interactive entertainment subsidiary, Spin Master Studios, announced that they are planning to launch a online virtual skate park based on the company’s Tech Deck brand. The Tech Deck toys are miniature finger-skateboards, and the company also makes various skateboarding figurines and toys.

They plan to release “Tech Deck Live” in Summer 2008. It will be browser-based and free to play. Of course there also will be subscriptions for premium content. Players create a custom skater avatar with gear and skateboards, and can visit various skate park levels with friends for chat, teaming and skate competitions.

Otherwise than blacklist sites as usual, KidZui have around 200 teachers and parents which whitelists the “good” ones. There are around 500000 sites n the list already. Like everyone lately they are aim to Webkinz and Club Penguin success. Probably they can succeed because idea is really nice.

Browsing experience is going to be graphical as all kids projects. There are 3 types of content: websites, photos and videos. All them have their own interface with different features.

There’s also social networking features in KidZui which are designed with safety in mind. Kids can make their avatars and make friends. But friends should be approved by parents.

Overall, KidZui are first who create “safety” virtual world for kids. I think they have all chances to succeed.

From users will require just browser and they will interact through 3D avatars.

Stable Media co-founder David Abelson commented:

“RipLounge was designed to take social networking to the next level. Advertisers can choose how they want to be seen within the community. We’re trying to break away from the typical ad placements that users are not engaging in. We want to follow the lead of television and film in their ability to effectively advertise through product placement and content integration which enhances brand exposure while maintaining the integrity of the user experience.”