Massively Multiplayer Online Worlds as a Platform for Augmented Reality Experiences

Massively Multiplayer Online Worlds (MMOs) are persistent virtual environments where people play, experiment and socially interact. In this paper, we demonstrate that MMOs also provide a powerful platform for Augmented Reality (AR) applications, where we blend together locations in physical space with corresponding places in the virtual world. We introduce the notion of AR stages, which are persistent, evolving spaces that encapsulate AR experiences in online three-dimensional virtual worlds. We discuss the concepts and technology necessary to use an MMO for AR, including a novel set of design concepts aimed at keeping such a system easy to learn and use. By leveraging the features of the commercial MMO Second Life, we have created a powerful AR authoring environment accessible to a large, diverse set of users.