There has been talk among the residents over the past couple days regarding whether or not there should be an achievement system in Second Life. I tend to fall on the "not" side of the line but do understand that there are people who want one. As long as it is a hud and not embedded in the profile, opt in (verses opt out) and not forced upon me, I have no issue with one being implemented.

Tom Verre tweeted an article that addressed this type of issue: "Does Your Startup Really Need Those Game Mechanics?" which leads to an opposing article " Why You Should NOT Integrate Game Mechanics Into Your Service."

Ironically, when I logged into Twinity today, I discovered that they have now implemented an achievement system. They actually have two types in play.

The first one is part of the new resident tutorial and consists of six tasks:

Make a friend!
Spread the love and give a gift!
Dance, dance, dance!
Feeling exhausted? Sit down!
Check the events calendar!
Visit another place!

Each of these tasks are designed to teach you the basics for navigating Twinity. Completion of each task earns you Globals for spending.

The second, more complex achievement system, is divided into three categories of Travel, Lifestyle and Living. These tasks involve people, places and events across Twinity. This one rewards a combination of Globals and leveling up.

I was surprised to find myself being drawn into completing some of the tasks. Money talks, ya know? The tasks really weren't difficult to accomplish and they did encourage me to explore Twinity.

Back to Second Life though. Someone had tweeted that maybe an achievement system could be tied into the Places and Events portion of Search. I could see that being a balance to the things not listed in the Destinations Guide. This could also be another tool for driving traffic to places and events.

So yes, I see, I get it. And I would probably even participate if some Linden$ were involved. {:o)

One last note. Twinity has finally arrived in the United States with the opening of Miami. I spent some time skateboarding around. Twinity has really evolved over the past 3 years. Stop in and see the growth when you have the time.

~ Tinsel Silvera ~