[Each day, Worlds in Motion will be taking a closer look at individual virtual worlds. We'll start with a nuts-and-bolts overview, then move on to an in-depth tour, to be followed up with a conclusion-- all with the aim of bringing you all the essential info and details on each world in the rapidly-developing virtual landscape.]

This week, our Online World Atlas looks at Gaia Online, from Gaia Interactive. Beginning as a link list for anime fans, Gaia Online has since expanded hugely to feature customizable avatars, an online world with user-owned homes, virtual currency and games, though its core is based around a huge forum, which averages a million posts a day according to some commentators.

Name: Gaia Online

Company: Gaia Interactive

Established: February 2003

How it Works: Gaia Online is experienced on the web through a combination of html, Flash, Java and Shockwave. It requires no installation. Navigation and gameplay are accomplished via mouse and keyboard input.

Overview: Gaia Online community originally solidified around it's forums, and the majority of Gaia Online users still spend most of their time there. However, the site has a massive range of other community options, with customizable avatars and home pages; an online world with towns full of user-owned homes that are just as customizable as the avatars; and games to play (with or against other members of the community).

Payment Method: Gaia Online is free to play, and earns revenue through microtransactions (users can purchase limited-edition items each month, and Gaia Cash), advertising/corporate sponsorship and licensed clothes and accessories.

Key Features:
- Unique avatar with a huge variety of dress-up options
- Customizable home and car for your avatar
- Full social network with a massive forum community
- Games to play with and against other community members
- Items can be bought, sold and traded within the community

Useful Links:
Gaiapedia
Gaia FAQ/Help
Gaia Forums