How did massive multiplayer online games use avatars and persistent virtual worlds?

Massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) utilize persistent virtual worlds and avatars to facilitate large-scale social interaction and gameplay.12

Persistent Virtual Worlds

A persistent virtual world is an online environment that continues to exist and evolve even when a specific player is logged off. These worlds require an active Internet connection and are hosted on servers that accommodate thousands of concurrent players. Because these environments are ongoing, they often feature complex social structures, economies, and narratives that persist over time. In some cases, these worlds have become so immersive that they have fostered secondary economies where players trade virtual goods for real-world currency.132

The Role of Avatars

In these environments, an avatar serves as the user's visual representation and primary tool for interaction.4
* Identity and Interaction: Avatars allow players to navigate the virtual space, engage in combat, craft items, and communicate with other users. They mediate the social experience, enabling players to form relationships or participate in group activities regardless of their offline identities.42
* Customization: Players often spend significant time customizing their avatars’ appearance—such as race, gender, and gear—to reflect their self-concept or to role-play specific characters.4
* Perspective: Most MMOs utilize a third-person perspective, allowing users to view their avatars within the environment, which often fosters a sense of connection to the virtual form.4