Kaneva entering the MMORPG market

I somewhat randomly came across the "World of Kaneva," a new multi-user online virtual environment still in development (i.e. vaporware.)  Kaneva itself is a channel-based hosting service for videos, blogs, photos and other multi-media content, still in the beta-phase.  They appear to be trying to dominate various kinds of e-business at the time, going up against YouTube as well as World of Warcraft. I guess that’s one kind of business strategy.

The Worlds of Kaneva looks like a blend of Sims Online and Second Life.  The activities seem to be designed around socializing and commerce, rather than gaming and building, in an young, urban, hipster environment.

Their site describes Kaneva as:

a vast 3-D virtual world where thousands of people will be
able to simultaneously explore, socialize and be entertained like never
before.
Currently under development, World of Kaneva is designed to deliver the
ultimate social experience online. You will start by creating your own
avatar and apartment. Then embark on your journey as you explore the
cityscape, meet up with friends, visit a theater or stop by the casino
or nightclub.
In this world, you can meet new people, buy and sell property and other
virtual items, and earn credits. The only limitation is your
imagination.World of Kaneva – a totally virtual place where you can
share yourself or your alter ego with the world. You get to make your
virtual life whatever you choose.

All the avatars appear to be normal humans.  It doesn’t look like
furries or giant robots will be welcomed.  No word on cyber-sex, but
gambling seems to be supported.  They are currently looking to hire 3D
environment developers.

Good luck to them.  I won’t be closing my Second Life account anytime soon…