Second Life is a 3D virtual world where people can create avatars and communicate with other people in the Second Life world. Avatars can do almost everything people can do in the real world, include socialize, work, go shopping, buy land and even get intimate with other avatars. With over 21 million users, the game provides a great deal of opportunity for interaction with others through real time instant messaging, text messages or voice communication. Just like in real life manners and social guidelines are important in this virtual world. The following are some guidelines for Second Life etiquette.
Be polite to others
Just like in the real world it is not kosher to make derogatory comments, push and shove others or generally be a jerk. If you unintentionally do something that makes another player upset, apologize and do your best to rectify the situation. Bullying or going out of your way to hurt someone else is never acceptable. Remember that behind each avatar is a real human being with feelings just like you.
Never walk into a house unannounced
In Second Life players can buy land and build houses exactly the way they like. This costs real money and it can take years to create the perfect space. For this reason, people can get very upset if you barge into their house or invade their space. In real life you would never walk into a stranger’s house uninvited, and it is not appreciated in SL either.
Do not teleport unannounced
A common way to get around the SL world is to teleport. This has its upsides and downsides. The obvious benefit is that you can get around from place to place quickly. The downside is that people can teleport into other people’s spaces whenever they like. This can cause problems, especially if the avatar is busy, having an intimate moment, or involved conversation with someone else. Be sure to get permission before teleporting over to someone.
Respect other people’s wishes for communication
Communication is the name of the game in SL, but that does not mean you can or should try to befriend every person you meet. Some people may not be looking for new friends, they may be shy, or they may not speak the same language as you. Never push someone to respond to you if they seem uninterested.
Try not to beg
Even in the virtual world a person who leeches off others or looks for handouts is not appreciated. If you want to make some money, get a job or learn to make things to sell. Develop some skills that will bring in the Linden dollars. As with begging for money, begging for sex is in poor taste. If you do ask someone for something and they say no, leave it at that and respect their wishes.
Read group rules before you join in
There are hundreds of groups to join in SL ranging from social clubs, prayer groups, language gatherings, bands and social networks to name a few. If you want to join a group make sure you read about the rules of that group under the Info tab. Some groups allow open instant messaging on any topic, while others are stricter and prefer to discuss only the topic on hand. Never use a group to solicit or spam, as you will most likely be kicked out of the group.
Act appropriately in PG areas
There are three types of regions in SL: General (or PG), Moderate, and Adult. In General areas nudity, violence and sexually explicit behavior is not allowed. Be sure to act in an appropriate manner in General areas. Watch your language and actions here, as some people may be offended if you try to push the boundaries. If you want to partake in adult behavior, keep to the Adult regions.
Second Life is a fascinating virtual world where you can be whoever you want to be and meet millions of other people all playing out their chosen roles. Because it is such an interactive world, it is important to be respectful of others so that everyone can enjoy the game equally. A simple guideline for Second Life etiquette is that if something is unacceptable in the real world, it is most likely unacceptable in the SL world as well.