Linden Lab announced on Monday that Mac OS X v10.3 “Panther” users can now join the online world of Second Life as beta testers. The company announced plans to produce a Mac version of Second Life earlier this year.
Second Life first went online in June of 2003. It’s an 3D online world that’s more simulation than role playing game, in which users can buy their own virtual land, play, build and live while interacting with others. Some Second Life residents are content to play online games and interact in that way, while others have created their own stores, shops and unique places to visit as a way of generating in-game income and prestige.
The client software itself is more than just a bridge into the online world — it also provides players with the tools they need to create objects in the world of Second Life. And with today’s announcement, developers Linden Lab indicate that a new version of the software — v1.2, the version that Panther users can beta-test — sports an improved interface that’s easier to use that previous releases.
System requirements call for a G4/1GHz or faster; 512MB RAM; ATI Radeon 8500 or Nvidia GeForce2 MX or faster graphics; Mac OS X v10.3 and a broadband Internet connection.
Users can download and install the software for free, and Linden Lab has made available a 7-day trial version of Second Life available for free (although you’ll need a credit card number to activate your account). Monthly, quarterly and annual registration fees are available if you decide you want to continue.
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