A virtual world is an online community that takes the form of a computer-based simulated environment through which users can interact with one another and use and create objects. [ 1 ] The term has become largely synonymous with interactive 3D virtual environments, where the users take the form of avatars visible to others. [ 2 ] These avatars usually appear as textual, two-dimensional, or three-dimensional representations, although other forms are possible (auditory and touch sensations for example). [ 3 ] [ 4 ] In general, virtual worlds allow for multiple users.