NEED-BASED ONLINE VIRTUAL REALITY ECOMMERCE SYSTEM
First Claim
1. An ecommerce system comprising media containing software which is operable on a server computer and accessible to a user through a computer network, the software being able to provide to the user a simulation of a virtual reality world, the virtual reality world including:
- an avatar under control of the user;
a virtual need imposed upon the avatar, whereby the virtual need must be satisfied so as to avoid an adverse effect upon the avatar, andat least one ecommerce opportunity which can be exercised within the virtual reality world so as to meet the virtual need.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An online virtual reality ecommerce system imposes needs upon its avatars, thereby enhancing the simulation of reality, and providing need-based motivations for ecommerce in addition to enjoyment-based motivations. The virtual needs also cause avatars to be perceived as independent beings which can independently enjoy, desire, and suffer based on experiences and purchases within the virtual world. This causes users to emotionally bond with their avatars, and to feel compassion, empathy, and even friendship toward them. Users feel increased desires to spend time online with their avatars, and to purchase goods for their avatars as well as for themselves. Avatars can be fantasy avatars in a virtual fantasy world, and their needs can include special, fantasy items. Basic needs can include food, clothing, shelter, exercise, bathing, shaving, medicine, and haircuts. Entertainment can be needed to avoid boredom, and specific tools, equipment, fuel, and/or transportation can be needed for various activities.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. An ecommerce system comprising media containing software which is operable on a server computer and accessible to a user through a computer network, the software being able to provide to the user a simulation of a virtual reality world, the virtual reality world including:
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an avatar under control of the user; a virtual need imposed upon the avatar, whereby the virtual need must be satisfied so as to avoid an adverse effect upon the avatar, and at least one ecommerce opportunity which can be exercised within the virtual reality world so as to meet the virtual need. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16)
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Specification