Update: There.com

As I mentioned once before, I have been tinkering with There.com. I have learned a lot since I first got started and I want to share an updated view of what I think of the service. If you like chatting, socializing, and exploring, then you must try this. I quite enjoy it.

In fact, I like it more now than when I first began. It takes some getting used to. You learn shortcuts after a while. One worth mentioning is that to make a gesture in chat, such as a laugh or a wave, simply type the command ‘wave or ‘smile. It’s easier than using the mouse if you are already typing.

There.com is an incredibly easy way to meet people. Everyone I have met has been very positive and helpful with my learning how to use it and offering ideas. Unlike old-school chat rooms, this 3-D world has hoards of people standing or walking around. People freely walk up and exchange words all the time. You can join games and competitions, too. My only problem is that I have found that most everyone I meet is a lot younger than I am. At 30, I guess I am in the older bracket of users who try this kind of stuff out.

Last week, I bit the bullet and upgraded my free account to become a premium member. It is well worth it. It is only a one-time fee of $9.95. With that you get a lot, including favorites, a compass, and voice chat. I was stunned when the voice chat first turned on. I could hear people talking into their headsets who were standing nearby. You can’t get this in the free version. It takes it to a whole new level. Since you only pay that one time, I would suggest doing it. Also, as a free member, I used to be locked out of half of the places on the map. No longer. I can own property, attend auctions, and go anywhere I want now.

I also picked up a hover bike which has been wonderful. It helps me get around everywhere much faster and also rides uphill, nearly in a vertical state if you are on a steep slope. One frustrating feature of There is that some areas are designated “No Dropping Zone”. Which means you cannot pull out your hoverboard, buggy, or whatever. Sometimes this is not clearly indicated.

I installed There on my Dell notebook computer, which is faster than my older desktop PC. It ran great, but I noticed that the computer was getting very hot from the constant activity. I eventually decided to use my desktop computer when I want to log on. It takes a lot out of the computer and I notice that the hard drive is usually very busy. I thought that over time, I may wear out the small drive that is in my notebook. Also, I’ll mention that it would probably be wise to have a 7200 RPM speed drive to keep things smooth.

See you There.