May 21st, 2008
SmallWorlds getting ready to open its doors
SmallWorlds, an application I called “the coolest Flex app I’ve ever seen” is getting ready to go into pubic beta mode with a new new features. SmallWorlds is a 3D world built entire in Flex. You can create an avatar (and a pet) and then set up a room that’s al yours to customize and shop for. One of the coolest parts about SmallWorlds is the close integration it has with other Web 2.0 services. You can buy picture frames that load up images from Flickr, radios that play stations from Last.fm, and billboards that let you post and view Twitter messages.
The game is meant to be very informal and the learning curve is low, especially with some of the new tutorials. Since I first wrote about SmallWorlds they’ve added pets, a lot more items, more games, and “missions” that give you rewards for completing them. Another cool feature of SmallWorlds is the collaboration around objects. You can play any of the games with other players and watch YouTube videos together chatting and “changing the channel” as you go. It adds a fun and social element to a lot of these Web 2.0 properties.
Another addition in the new version is the ability to deep link into spaces. As a result it’s very easy to share the space you’ve set up with friends or anyone else who wants to join you. You can come check out the RIA Mountaineer’s Cabin (but be prepared for country music). Eventually you’ll be able to create your own items and really expand the world through development. But right now the changes are great additions and the world of SmallWorlds is a very fun place to hang out.
Ryan Stewart, a Rich Internet Application developer and industry analyst, recently joined Adobe's Platform Team as a Rich Internet Application Evangelist. full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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