We're live from NYC's Virtual Worlds Conference PDF Print E-mail
Written by Bonnie Boglioli Randall   
Sunday, 25 March 2007 13:11

I close my eyes, visualizing the list I compiled weeks ago in preparation for attending the 2007 Virtual Worlds Conference in Manhattan. The days have quickly raced by as I hurriedly finished various projects in anticipation. This morning, I awoke early and arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare. I checked my emails one last time in the terminal prior to departure and finalized my plans for interviews, lectures and dinners in the Big Apple.

Several years back, a group of some 2,400 individuals from around the world congregated in the trend-setting town of Austin, Texas, to initiate a conference dedicated to mmog’s (also known as ‘massively multiplayer online games’ to those not yet in tune with the industry lingo). The success of the event could not be overlooked, and in 2006 history was made when a considerable and dedicated offshoot formed a spinoff affair specifically tailored to non-gaming virtual worlds.

Yet websites remain vague and history is still too new to dictate many expectations. The 2007 Virtual Worlds Conference is to be housed in one of Manhattan’s most notable museums in the heart of the famed Wall Street District, but many of the attendees I’ve spoken with hesitate to make many predictions. Despite their calm appearance, I realize that the restless nerve of the industry populace is anxious to see this year’s blockbuster event unfold.

The VWC is so innovative and fresh that it is not to be missed by anyone within the virtual worlds industry. The featured speakers read like a Who’s Who list, from the media elite, such as MTV and Reuters, to the industry standards, featuring IBM, Walt Disney and a large assortment of new players that cater to the emerging ranks of virtual worlds clientele. While I’m merely a writer, I can’t help but get excited at the prospect of intermingling with these people and picking their brains, from the corporate giants down to my fellow grassroots enthusiasts. It should prove to be a fantastic opportunity to get a lead on the industry’s anticipated progression as well as offer me the opportunity to come face-to-face with the industry’s most influential leaders.

Check in to RCE Universe each day to read my special reviews, chats and dialogues, as well as to view my photoslide pictures. With laptop by my side and camera in hand, I’m armed and ready to bring you 24/7 coverage of the 2007 Virtual Worlds Conference. Are you ready?


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