MTV Launches Virtual Skate Park

MTV Networks is making skateboarding, or the virtual version of the action sport, the centerpiece of its two newest virtual worlds. The company has expanded its partnership with Makena Technologies, the company behind its series of virtual worlds tied to top MTV shows such as Laguna Beach and Pimp My Ride, with the launch of a new virtual skate park in its two newest worlds. The reality shows Rob and Big and Life of Ryan, each of which depict real-world professional skateboarders, feature the new skate park in their virtual worlds, which went live on Jan. 8. The skate park enables visitors to navigate various ramps, halfpipes and jumps using their avatars – or videogame-like representations. Plus, MTVN is banking on the new Makena-built skate park to add to the social element of its worlds. The park will host competitions and events, and users will also be able to gather to watch video clips from the two series.
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http://www.vmtv.com/virtualskatepark.html