Life as a Noob

Noob = YOU when you first enter Second Life. Sorry, but true. Even if you are computer savvy, play other multiplayer games, develop software, etc... you are a noob when you first log on.

You will fully realize this when you finally figure out how to get out of the beginners area. You might be looking at your character (which you have chosen from a small selection of prefab personalities) thinking that this little 3d person looks pretty good. Then you find your way out and bump into a seasoned player... wow... where did they get that color changing mohawk? or what about that chick with leopard skin? that guy hopping around on a pogo stick with a shark flying around his head!

The addiction begins here. Second Life has shopping. These simple noob observations and yearnings usually do one of three things; 1. Make you break out your Visa, 2. Start tinkering around with making stuff (like cloths and houses) 3. Get a job within Second Life

Yes, a job. Lots of players make money within Second Life. Most people that stay with the game for any amount of time do so because they love being able to create and the idea of selling their creations. But most people don't come into the game knowing how to make stuff in 3D or market it within the game. These things take time. Count on a time sucking hobby/obsession for at least 6 months before you start paying bills with your Linden dollars.

Paying bills? Yes. Paying bills. There is an exchange rate between Second Life currency and the US dollar. That is a entire topic in itself. You can buy and sell Lindens the same as stocks. You can earn money within the game, then convert it to US dollars and have it sent to your Paypal account. I've been paying my World of Warcraft gaming subscription with Second Life.

I know this blog isn't really done... but my lunch break is over. So I guess you will just have to come back again tomorrow.