METAVERSE MAGNIFIQUE: Making Meaningful Metaverses

Abstract

Being immersive online and physically isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic may not be the future of the metaverse we anticipate. Therefore, the rising challenge of creating metaverses does not lie in what novel virtual experiences can be offered but in how to make the experience more meaningful to users. This involves creating an engaging environment for both physical and virtual social interactions and providing equity for a wide range of users. Metaverse Magnifique intends to explore the design of a meaningful metaverse beyond the computer screen. It investigates a combination of the best features of digital and physical environments with human interactions seamlessly conducted and transitioned between the two worlds while also inquiring a better understanding of the changing social norms from fundamental human activities. A series of experimental Protometaverse projects based on a critical review of the Metaverse typology are proposed then developed into small-scale designs to highlight a meaningful behavior, action, task, or activity. The projects are then coupled with a physical site and extended into a full-fledged metaverse project integrated within the city. The projects showcase meaningful experiences by translating visual and spatial elements then enabling AI assistive features for better communication or interpretation of subtle interaction nuances.