Singapore has always been a city on the cutting edge, so it's no surprise that it is now stepping boldly into the ambitious digital world of the metaverse. Metaverse? Imagine stepping into your favourite video game, but instead of just playing, you are actually living a whole digital life.
I was curious to attend the exclusive media launch to get a sneak peek of CapitaVerse, a bold new venture by CapitaLand that blends virtual worlds with real-world rewards. The event at Funan Mall was very well-organised and quite raucous, too, due to the fan base of Singaporean actor and singer Glenn Yong.
Welcome to the Singapore Wanderland
CapitaVerse isn't some standalone virtual space; it exists within the broader "Singapore Wanderland" on Roblox, the world's most popular metaverse gaming platform. The game has attracted over 7.6 million visits since its launch in May 2023.
This collaborative project, spearheaded by the Singapore Tourism Board, is a digital wonderland showcasing our own Lion City's real-life attractions. Here is a taste of Singapore reimagined and presented for a global audience within the popular gaming platform.
Stepping into the virtual Funan mall, the first CapitaLand property recreated in CapitaVerse, felt surprisingly familiar, as are Singapore's iconic landmarks. There are also shophouses and buildings from brands such as Ginlee, Puma, Barehand and the National Gallery of Singapore.
A Gateway for Exploration and Discovery
The launch event made it clear that CapitaVerse is about more than just shopping. You can interact with other avatars, building a sense of community within the virtual space. You can dress your avatar in limited-edition virtual wearables, play games with other players and win real-world prizes, earn attendance badges, and even attend performances by Glenn Yong on the virtual centre stage. I'd read much about the metaverse, but my first experience was mind-blowing.
What sets CapitaVerse apart is its commitment to bridging the virtual and the real. I wasn't just aimlessly wandering a digital mall. Missions, challenges, and mini-games kept me entertained and focused. There is much to see and do as you wander through the CapitaVerse. The experience was smooth and engaging, a testament to the careful design and attention to detail. You will recognise Singapore landmarks and other sights while you travel to various sites and islands to solve puzzles. It's entertaining once you get to know the movement and jump controls. Yes, it is cartoony and very game-like, but that's what makes it fun. You can also win hundreds of real-world prizes. It's a brilliant way to make the online experience tangible and rewarding.
Register for your own account, create your avatar and join the fun at CapitaVerse. Login in at www.CapitaVerse.com. You will also need a Roblox account. Download the app from your usual app store.
Why You Should Dive In
Here's why I think it's worth exploring:
· The Novelty Factor: The metaverse is still a new frontier, and CapitaVerse provides an accessible and enjoyable way to experience it first-hand.
· Fun and Games: The quests and mini-games offer a light-hearted challenge, making exploration exciting.
· Rewards That Matter: Earning points that translate into real-world perks is a fantastic motivator.
· A Showcase for Singapore: CapitaVerse puts a spotlight on local brands and talents, promoting the city on a global platform.
As CapitaLand adds more of its properties and the experiences expand, I envision CapitaVerse becoming a bustling virtual destination where shopping, entertainment, and community come together in the exciting realm of the metaverse.
About The Writer
Doug Peris is a well-known writer and reporter for Expat Choice Asia, a passionate foodie and an avid traveller. Originally from Australia, he has been living in Singapore since 2000. With an appreciation and curiosity for good chefs, street food, unique travel destinations and diverse cultures, Doug enjoys indulging in culinary delights when travelling for work or leisure. When Doug is not seeking out the best local eats, you can find him in the kitchen trying new recipes, cycling on the roads of Singapore, watching rugby matches, or planning his next beach getaway.
His varied experiences allow Doug to provide unique perspectives on the vibrant local food scenes across this dynamic region, where his honest and reliable recommendations are well regarded. So, join Doug as he shares his food and travel adventures through thoughtful reports and articles published and distributed on www.expatchoice.asia.
If you would like Doug or any of our reviewers to visit your establishment as a guest to report on your unique experience and have this report published on Expat Choice, contact us via email with details of your offering at contact@expatchoice.asia
The CapitaVerse will run from 8th April to 31st October 2024.
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