Jibe is the name of a new virtual world running on the Unity 3D web browser, developed by ReactionGrid, the company mainly known for running OpenSimulator-based platforms for companies like Microsoft and IBM. Jibe isn't strictly a web-based world, however, because here's the interesting twist: If you have a powerful PC, you can get a downloadable client with high end graphics. The Unity-based version of Jibe also comes in two flavors, depending on how studly your laptop is. (Wouldn't it be great if Second Life also offered these options?) Above is the Jibe avatar I created in about 30 seconds, running in the mid-level version, dubbed "Space Electron". As a Beta product, it's very Beta, maybe a few notches in performance quality below Friends Hangout, but then that's why they call it Beta. And unlike Friends Hangout, Jibe comes with Vivox voice support. In any case, it's excellent to see more Unity-driven virtual worlds - counting this, FH, Rezzable's Unity browser, Frenzoo, there's at least four of them now. (And not counting the MMO titles like Fusion Fall.) Read more about Jibe on this Reaction Grid page.
Hat tip: Tinsel Silvera.
While I think a lot of these early apps have a way to go I am really pleased with the speed that Unity is advancing. Version 3 looks like it will improve things even more - Second Life needs to get it's act together before a really convincing Unity app comes along for the masses.
Posted by: Hitomi Tiponi | Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 11:48 AM