Today we’re thrilled to be rolling out another perk for Premium members: now you can be a member of 60 groups! Groups have been a consistently popular feature among the Residents of Second Life. It may not be obvious, but group membership can have an impact on the performance of a number of systems. That's why in Second Life's early days, Residents could only join a maximum of 10 groups. Over the years, we've made improvements that enabled us to raise the group limit to a maximum of 42, but we know that for some power users, even that isn't quite enough, and today we're happy to raise the bar for Premium subscribers.  We must make sure that the recent gains in group performance are not jeopardized, so for now the new limit is a pilot program. If there are no problems, we will look forward to raising the limit further (stay tuned!).

Premium members can immediately take advantage of the new limit. Downgrading from Premium membership will not remove you from any of your groups, but it will mean that you cannot join any new groups until you remove yourself from enough groups to get below the Basic account limit, which remains at 42.

There are many reasons to maintain a Premium membership in Second Life, and we hope this increased group membership limit makes Premium subscriptions even more attractive. We’ll be adding even more benefits and features for Premium members throughout the year.

Learn more about Premium membership and upgrade your account today. You can pay for your subscription monthly, quarterly, or annually - and the annual plan in particular is a great value. In addition to a total savings of more than $47 compared to a monthly subscription, the value of the weekly L$ stipend means the membership nearly pays for itself!

We all have our favorite spots to spend our time in Second Life, but it’s good to get out and experience something new - maybe even meet some new friends. The Second Life Destination Guide is a fount of spectacular places designed by Residents, populated with stuff made by Residents, and full of Residents themselves - so get in there and see what’s all around in the Second Life community. Here are just a few new spots you should make some time to visit.

Pandora Box: 003 - The River Dream

Pandora Box of Dreams's third dream (The River Dream) is open to the public. Pandora Box of Dreams is a creative sim setting that opened for the visionaries and creative minds who seek a place where dreams come to life. They also have a flickr group where artists can share their experiences: http://bit.ly/1KPz8Jz.

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The Kingdoms of Giliath

Welcome to Giliath, a world like no other. Will you enter in and discover your liaisons with the light or the darkness? Will you follow the paths that the ancients once walked? Will you learn to cast the magics that were handed down through the generations? Are you worthy to sing the song of the blade? This is your choice. Adventurer, what will it be? Choose wisely.

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The Missing Marbles: A Cajun Comedy Hunt

Boudreaux lost his marbles, and he needs them back in time for the tournament! Wearing your HUD, find all twenty marbles and hear funny stories along the way. When your HUD is completely filled, return to hunt HQ to collect your rewards. The hunt takes place in New Toulouse, an early 1900s-themed Louisiana community celebrating its 7th year in Second Life.

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Galanthus - The Ice Keep of Niphus

Winter came with draught and suffering. Lords of the north had little choice but to retreat. A land so fertile and green but winter came to Galanthus as much as it came to all.

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The Lemonrock Cafe

Experience live music from top Second Life musicians at the Lemon Rock, a place to hang out and chill for fun nightlife and live music entertainment.

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Many of our featured Pic of the Day pics come from great places like these - so share your snaps on the Official Second Life Flickr Page.

If you’re looking to get your spot in the Destination Guide, be sure to hit us up via the Destination Guide suggestion form.

Catch you inworld!

The weekend is just within reach - which must mean it’s time for another edition of Second Life Destination Guide Highlights - a satisfying sampler of some of the newest and coolest places to pop up in Second Life. The teleport button is waiting to happily guide you to your next great adventure.

6th Republic Event

6º Republic is a new decor and landscaping event showcasing a broad selection of designers in one place. Creativity, passion and uniqueness are found in exclusive 100% original mesh creations inspired in the theme selected for each round. The theme for the current round for May is Industrial, with small contemporary and rustic hues.

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Life in a Bowl by Cica Ghost

On a deserted tropical island, captive giant fish languidly survey the landscape in Cica Ghost's latest art experience and installation.

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City Inside Out

Walking into any interior reveals only exteriors. The sense of personal space is absent. How is a city experienced when there are no comforts for the soul, no home?

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Nairb's Skydive Center

What's there to do in Second Life? SKYDIVE! Get started here with a free basic parachute. Jump using the pod from 4000 meters or the two base jump platforms on the tower! Nairb's Skydive Center also features monthly contests and more.

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Nightingale Isle

Nightingale Isle was created as a space to encourage, challenge and support nursing students in their journey to become nurses. NI fosters collaboration, research and education between nursing students, educators and healthcare professionals.

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There is plenty more where that came from - the Destination Guide has a wealth of spots you should venture to - but if you have a region or location you’d love to show off that’s not there,  share it! As you cruise through the sights and sounds of new places, don’t forget to take some snapshots and upload them to the official Second Life Flickr Page.

Second Life is turning 12 this June, and we’re planning a few extra special ways to help commemorate a dozen amazing years with our Residents! You’ll have to stay tuned to this blog and our social media pages for all the exciting things as they roll out, but today we’re announcing auditions for … (drum roll, please) … the Second Life Music Fest - sponsored by Linden Lab - a two day music-extravaganza inworld to celebrate!

Second Life is full of talented musicians, and we’re hoping to draw out all you guitarists, bassists, drummers, singers, tambourine shakers and other music makers to come audition for the festival. All genres are welcome!

The Second Life Music Fest is an opportunity to perform at one of the biggest celebrations in Second Life, and it’s a paid gig!

To sign up for an audition, please complete and submit the submission form no later than 05/20/2015. While we encourage everyone to sign up, it is not a commitment on your part and does not guarantee a spot at the auditions. We will review all submissions and extend audition invitations via email to the designated contact. Each invited act will have a short audition time (5 minutes max) to play and leave an impression on a panel of judges made up of Lindens and Residents. This panel will select acts to be invited to perform at the Second Life Music Fest. Upon completion of a half hour slot at the festival, the designated contact for each act will be eligible for payment (subject to Linden’s terms and conditions).

All Residents are welcome to participate in the auditions as audience members. For those who are interested, the auditions will be held at the Lavender Field on the following dates and times:

May 22nd noon - 2pm (SLT)

May 23rd 6pm - 8pm (SLT)

It should be a few days of great music and good times, and we can’t wait to see and hear some of the best musical talent there is, and spend some time rocking out inworld!

It’s just about inworld meetup time, and since we’re in the habit of sharing some of our favorite spots from the Destination Guide, this weekend, we wanted to flip the script and find out from you what spot you think is one of the best to visit for our next inworld meetup.

Share your recommendations in this forum thread - links to Destination Guide entry or SLURLS are best - and we’ll pick one to have our next inworld meetup.

The next meetup is planned for Thursday, May 14th at 1 PM SLT, so get your recommendations in soon!

As always, if you have a region or location that you would like to show off - be sure to share it, and we always love to see pics of your adventures on the Official Second Life Flickr page.

 “Everyone has their own interpretation of the future as something different, but this is our interpretation of it.”

Meet StarRavenSAT, General Manager of InSilico, and Stark Osterham, Manager and Lore Master, in the latest episode of the Drax Files: World Makers. StarRavenSat finds hope even in the throes of a desperate civilization, and Stark shares his creative process with his daughter who serves as a source of inspiration even as she herself learns the importance of creative expression from her father. Populated with a full cast of characters improvised by Stark, InSilico’s history is created in realtime by all participants - from builders, storytellers, scripters, and players. This type of spontaneous collaboration focuses different flavors of creative energy into creative play - leading to an immersive and exciting experience.

InSilico is a cyberpunk roleplaying region set in a dystopian future where a big bad corporation seemingly calls the shots, and ongoing wars between rival groups of locals require citizens to be experts at self-defense. Rife with both wonder and danger, it’s everything you might expect from a 25th century city floating in the upper atmosphere after the fall of civilization on Earth.

Watch the video below, then login to experience InSilico inworld. Even if you’re not an avid roleplayer, you won’t want to miss out on the unique aesthetic and appeal of InSilico.

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Want to see more personal Second Life stories? Find all the previous episodes at Draxtor’s Website or below:

The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 1: Kriss Lehmann
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 2: Jo Yardley
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 3: Eshi Otawara
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 4: Fantasy Faire / RFL
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 5: Engrama

Did you know that you could be earning money while helping Second Life grow? The Second Life Affiliate Program makes it easy!

The Affiliate Program rewards you for associating your website, blog, social media channel, or other means of outreach with Second Life. You earn a commission every time someone becomes a Second Life user (registering an account and logging into the Viewer) within 45 days of clicking a Second Life link on your site. In other words, you get paid for helping Second Life grow with new users.

To learn more, including regional restrictions on participation, and to apply to the Affiliate Program, click here.

*Note: Only sites that are in compliance with the Guidelines for Using Linden Lab’s Trademarks can be accepted into the program, so before applying, please check to be sure that your site is in compliance. You can learn more in the Second Life Brand Center.

"I have been having nightmares as long as I remember,” says Kiana Writer - one of the many talented creators behind MadPea’s latest story-driven survival/horror game in Second Life,“My first one was at the age of four when I was being chased by rhinos in the dark woods. I thought everyone was dreaming like me and was surprised when I realized this wasn't the case … Second Life gave me the tools to have my nightmares become fully immersive games!”

UNIA, the newest game from MadPea has hit the grid - and it’s a big one! Over the past two years, the MadPea team has been creating and scripting a story in which you battle the odds to unravel one piece of a larger mystery. The scope and magnitude of the project grew with the introduction of Experience Tools in Second Life - an opportunity that the MadPea team saw to optimize the gameplay and interaction of the experience you will have when you join the game.

UNIA is a spooky adventure into a nightmarish world; a survival/horror game with twists and turns lurking in every shadow. Prepare to solve puzzles, fight monsters, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this adventure.

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You can check the MadPea website for question on How To Play or jump right into the action. Bookmark this blog for your teleport to play.

Unia

Unia is an immersive horror survival game bursting with twists, turns and fight-for-your-life experiences. Players will need their wits about them to solve puzzles and find clues to what’s really going on with the mysterious disappearances in the sleepy town of Molimo. Who or what is behind this horror?

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While UNIA should keep you busy for hours of gameplay, MadPea is already working on the next chapter, and has given us the exclusive scoop that their next game will be called The Collection - where you can expect the same level of story-based gaming and immersion that MadPea is known for.

The Second Life Destination Guide is always packed to the brim with new and amazing places to discover. If you’re not checking in on a regular basis, you might be missing out! For those looking for the cliff notes to this week’s newest sample selection of must-see regions, read on!

2015’s Fantasy Faire’s back with a bang. From now until May 3rd, step through a magical doorway to experience the wonder that is the Fantasy Fairelands. This Relay for Life of Second Life-sponsored event is the largest celebration of the fantasy genre in the virtual world. Shop for enchanting clothing, accessories, and slip into the magical mists with music and performances - all for a good cause!

Fantasy Faire 2015

Visit the seventh annual Fantasy Faire April 23rd through May 3rd. Step through a magical doorway to thirteen regions beautifully brought to life for the largest celebration of fantasy art, artists, and enthusiasts in the virtual world. From the Spires of Andolys to Poseidon's Abyss, get ready for an amazing time of unimaginable proportions! Best part, it all benefits the American Cancer Society.

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Dance your troubles away at Tabarin - an underground bar and club offering visual effects, weekly themed events, contests, and activities. Enjoy music, meeting new people, and simply admiring your slick dance moves.

Tabarin

At Tabarin, you can enjoy a real party atmosphere. This original underground club offers many visual effects, weekly themed events, contests, and activities. So step inside, grab your VIP band, and head on down to Tabarin.

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Running through May 1st, the Black Fashion Fair is a yearly event where several Second Life creators offer exclusive items and gifts. Celebrate the impact of the color black has had in fashion - in all its shapes and forms  - at 2015’s Black Fashion Fair.  

Black Fashion Fair 2015

The Black Fashion Fair runs from April 17th through May 1st. Come see more than 180 designers inspired by the darkest color to bring exclusive items and many gifts. If you love black, here is your place.

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An intriguing and mysterious region, Xin is a land of crumbling buildings slowly overrun by vibrant plant life. What danger awaits in these crumpled skyscrapers? There’s only one way to find out - login and visit!

Xin

Nestled in a ruined, infected city is the home of Xin. Explore this run-down urban jungle and avoid danger at every turn.

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A deceptively quiet, snow-bound village, set in one of the most violent times in Japanese history, Sengoku Japan: Village in the Snow is a period role-play region you won’t want to miss. Will you be a mighty samurai, keeping yari and katana sharp in service to your lord, or do you prefer the beautiful and graceful geisha? Will you strike unseen, following the way of the ninja? Find your way in Sengoku Japan: Village in the Snow.

Sengoku Japan: Village in the Snow

Step back in time and dive into Japan's most troubled Sengoku period. The Village in the Snow is a newcomer-friendly community that encourages character-driven roleplay. Join Sengoku Japan to live out your inner Ninja, enjoy the many Geisha performances, make new friends, or just unwind and relax in a beautifully snowed-in village frozen in time.

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Do you have a region or location you’d love to show off? Join the fun and share it with Second Life. Or share a few pictures of your virtual adventures on the official Second Life Flickr Page. See you inworld!

Fantasy Faire in Second Life opens its 7th year on April 23rd and runs through May 3rd - boasting some of the best fantasy designers and performances for the benefit of the American Cancer Society. Fantasy Faire is one of the most popular events put together by Relay for Life of Second Life which organizes several successful fundraising events inworld each year.

In addition to all of the wondrous clothing, accessories, and whatever fantastical things you can imagine, this year’s Faire will also host a Literary Festival with workshops, storytelling, open mic sessions, and opportunities to meet and discuss work with authors.

The regions have been lovingly crafted by some of the best fantasy builders in Second Life and must be seen to be believed. Bring your photo-taking skills and prepare to be delighted.

Start planning your adventure by visiting the full calendar of events, dust off your “bag of holding” for all of the great finds you will walk off with, and come shop for a great cause.

Fantasy Faire 2015

Visit the seventh annual Fantasy Faire April 23rd through May 3rd. Step through a magical doorway to thirteen regions beautifully brought to life for the largest celebration of fantasy art, artists, and enthusiasts in the virtual world. From the Spires of Andolys to Poseidon's Abyss, get ready for an amazing time of unimaginable proportions! Best part, it all benefits the American Cancer Society.

Visit in Second Life

It’s time to see what’s new over at the Second Life Destination Guide. This week’s selection of experiences includes jungle airports, zombie holocausts, friendly neighborhoods, intricate installations, and even a little breakneck speed-racing. But don’t take our word for it, check them out below!

Nestled in an ever-encroaching jungle, Prata Airport is an enjoyable destination for pilots and adventurers of all types. Embrace land and sky with weekly flying lessons, river kayaking, mini golf, even horseback riding. This gorgeously-realized region is well worth your time.

Prata Airport

Prata Airport is a destination airport for the pilot who wants a challenge. Deep into the rain forest, you'll find a dirt runway nearly overtaken by cliffs and trees. You will be able to enjoy beautiful scenery, mini golf, horseback riding, even river kayaking. Flying lessons offered every Saturday to anyone interested in learning how to fly and about the aviation community!

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Everyone thinks they’d be one of the lucky survivors when the zombies take over, but what would you be willing to do to survive? Outbreak is a combat roleplay zone set in the aftermath of a zombie apocalypse. Band together or go it alone, Outbreak is the story-based, zombie roleplay you’ve been craving.

Outbreak

What would you do after the Outbreak? Discover how far your character will go to survive as you loot the dead, fight infected, scavenge for supplies, or work together to survive in this story-based role-play community. Learn more at http://outbreak.sl or visit inworld.

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Lobby Cam is the newest artistic offering from Second Life artist Bryn Oh. Lobby Cam tells a story of isolation in the setting of an abandoned railway and through the pages of a torn-up diary. Check out the trailer, and be sure to experience Bryn Oh’s Lobby Cam. 

Bryn Oh's Lobby Cam

Welcome to Bryn Oh's latest immersive narrative: Lobby Cam. A wheat field, an abandoned railway and a torn up diary... Wander an unexpected path for an isolated man living alone in a sea of wheat. Visit http://bit.ly/1BY9CdN for more information. Special thanks to the Ontario Arts Council.

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Vineyard Isles is a gorgeously-realized slice of virtual living. This wonderfully inclusive region offers parks, shops, events, a variety of homes, churches and all of the things you’d want in your virtual neighborhood. Join for the amenities, but stay for the community at Vineyard Isles. 

Vineyard Isles

Vineyard Isles is a friendly community based on island valley with rolling vineyard hills. Discover the beautiful and tranquil living the island provides. Vineyard Isles offers many amenities while still expanding the population to create and a vast and thriving community. Join them today!

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Second Life has always been a hot spot for racing, and WB Motorsports is the place for all speed demons. Unshackle yourself from socially-enforced speed limits with daily hosted races, multiple tracks to take a spin on, and a ton of fast and furious vehicles - just make sure to wear a helmet.

WB Motorsports

WB Motorsports was founded to offer the best road racing possible in Second Life. They continue to provide drivers with many different and unique race tracks tuned to premium road-racing vehicles, as well as the comfort of a friendly and welcoming racing community. WB Motorsports is free for anyone seeking a real challenge.

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The virtual world rewards creativity, so join the fun and create something new! Or snap a few photos for the official Second Life Flickr Page. Until next time, see you inworld!

This week, everything’s ice, fire, wolves, and dragons at the Second Life Destination Guide. If you crave high fantasy role-playing in medieval worlds, Second Life is the place to be. Shining sword, oaken staff, smooth bow, or blackened dagger, gird yourself and prepare for adventure!

King’s Landing takes its cue from high, grim fantasy. In the world of King’s Landing, rival houses scheme and claw their way to absolute power. Were you born a mean peasant, scrabbling in the mud as you dream of a better life? Or are you the haughty scion of a noble bloodline, whiling your days away in pampered luxury? Take the throne in King’s Landing.

King's Landing

King's Landing is a detailed medieval fantasy role-play sim where the land is torn in strife by back alley politics and greed.

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Another in the grand fantasy roleplay zones, Dynasty of Dragons features a detailed kingdom divided between warring factions. A fallen dynasty clutches for power in a land rent by war, but are they prepared for threats looming on the horizon? Make your story, take what’s yours, and topple the Dynasty of Dragons.

Dynasty of Dragons

Dynasty of Dragons is a role-play sim with a full and rich backstory. Are you committed to excellent role-play, deep and ongoing stories, twists and turns that could lead anywhere? Dynasty of Dragons is the place for you!

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Delve into a rich fantasy world in Mulmaster. Mulmaster is a small village located in northern Faerun, rife with crime and ruled by a merciless mercenary company. This sword and sorcery land of elves, dwarves, orcs, and men beckons all looking for the thrill of adventure.

Mulmaster

Mulmaster is a small town at the southeastern coast of the Moonsea in northern Faerun. It's a rustic medieval town, rife with crime and ruled by the Zhentarim. Enjoy this beautifully crafted sim for all your role-play experiences!

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Dragonlolth is a sprawling and intricate multi-region zone built on the bones of dragons. Set in the land of Taurëmorna, choose from three unique races as you carve your way from blade-fodder to legend. Simply put, Dragonlolth is one of the largest, most detailed fantasy builds to date.  

Dragonlolth

Dragonlolth is a fantasy realm for those seeking to lose themselves and explore this most magic of realms. Perfect for dragons, fae, elves and more, all are welcome in this intricate sim and dazzling sim.

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It’s time to leave the sun-lit lands behind. Take to the caverns and shadows of the underdark in the Drow Realm of Luth. This lightless land crawls with scheming dark elves, beautiful and terrible in service to their evil goddess. How long will you survive?

The Drow Realm of Luth

The Drow Realm of Luth is a great city built deep underground. If you're a fan of dark roleplay, visit Luth and feast your eyes on a great underdark city. They've got a streea area, the Raging Gargoyl, and a variety of public training areas. The city also within features temples, a library on fantasy roleplay, a mage tower and.

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There’s no excuse for drab adventurers, so show off that new cuirass in the official Second Life Flickr Page.  Or create and share your very own medieval fantasy land. Log in and forge your destiny today!

Being a Premium Second Life subscriber carries many benefits - from weekly L$ stipends, to your own Linden Home, expanded live customer support options, exclusive gifts, and more. Just last week, we added a new perk for Premium subscribers, and we’ll be adding even more benefits and features for Premium members throughout the year.

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade to a Premium account, now is a great time, because today we’re kicking off a great new sale: from today until April 13, 2015, you can upgrade to Premium subscription for less than $5 for your first month! That’s a 50% discount off the regular rate, and this offer won’t last long. Upgrade today and start enjoying Premium benefits at our lowest-ever monthly rate.

To learn more about all the benefits of going Premium and to upgrade your account, visit this page: https://secondlife.com/premium/

TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR 50% DISCOUNT This limited-time discount offer is available only for purchases of memberships on the Monthly billing plan. Discount will be applied to the first monthly billing cycle only, and all future charges will be at the regular Premium price ($9.95 USD, excluding VAT where applicable).  Sign-up bonus will be paid upon 45 consecutive days of membership.  To qualify, Second Life members must have an active Basic account or create a new Second Life account. Discount offer begins on Friday the 3rd of April at 8:00 am Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) and expires on Monday the 13th of April 2015 at 8:00 am Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).

There’s been a lot of excitement recently around our integration of the Oculus Rift with Second Life. The addition of HMD (head-mounted display) mode offers a new level of immersion for 3D experiences, but what about people who want less immersion?

Today, we’re happy to announce a new way to explore the wide variety of community-created experiences in Second Life, without the complexity of the third dimension: 2D side-scrolling (2DSS) mode. Without the third dimension, you can enjoy Second Life just like your favorite 8-bit games from the past!

Note: while this new mode is compatible with HMD mode, we do not recommend trying both simultaneously. If you were to  turn your head 90 degrees while doing so, the world may simply disappear from view - causing a rather jarring experience that might make you feel a bit foolish.

The new 2DSS mode is available as of April 1, 2015, and you can now download the Project Viewer to start enjoying some retro-future fun in Second Life!

Being a Premium Second Life subscriber carries many benefits - from weekly L$ stipends, to your own Linden Home, expanded live customer support options, exclusive gifts, and more. Today, we’re happy to announce a new perk for Premium subscribers: access to more missed instant messages!

Previously, if IMs were sent to your account while you were offline, you could access up to 25 messages when you next log in. That remains the case for free account holders, but starting today, Premium Members can access up to 50 missed IMs. That means fewer notecards filling up your inventory and fewer missed messages from friends, colleagues, and customers.

There are many reasons to upgrade to Premium, and we’ll be adding even more benefits and features for subscribers throughout the year. Learn more about Premium benefits and upgrade your account here: https://secondlife.com/premium/

You can pick the subscription plan that best fits your budget - pay monthly, quarterly, or annually. Pro tip: do the math on the annual plan - in addition to a total savings of more than $47 compared to a monthly subscription, the value of the weekly L$ stipend alone means it nearly pays for itself!

This episode of the Drax Files almost didn’t happen. When initially asked to participate, Whiskey Monday declined due to personal challenges that she’s since worked through by using Second Life as a medium for artistic expression.

"The anonymity in this virtual world gave me the bravery to be very very real. I was able to overcome a lot of issues by expressing myself creatively in Second Life!" she says.

Whiskey builds 3-dimensional sets inworld, then creates 2-dimensional images from them in her popular Second Life photography. One of the interesting things about her process is that she thrives on the impermanence of her builds and the process of deleting them once she has achieved her vision. While the image remains, the space in which the image was taken is gone.

Watch the

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Want to see more personal Second Life stories? Find all the previous episodes at Draxtor’s Website or below:

The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 1: Kriss Lehmann
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 2: Jo Yardley
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 3: Eshi Otawara
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 4: Fantasy Faire / RFL
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 5: Engrama

Last month, we blogged about some of the projects we’re working on to improve Second Life, and today, we’re happy to share that one of those changes has become a part of the default Second Life Viewer: hover height adjustments.

As a reminder, here’s what this change means (quoted from our previous post):

This new feature is now available to everyone as part of the default Second Life Viewer. Update to the latest version and start enjoying this improvement today!

The Second Life Destination Guide is packed full of events and limited-time experiences. This week’s haul includes tidal flats, charity fashion worlds, hunts, and chat hangouts. Dive in to new experiences below!

Fashion for Life makes a triumphant return to Second Life! Come see nine regions of the hottest designers, gorgeous fashions, the best modeling agencies, and dazzling entertainment in support of American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Find that new avatar look while donating to a great cause.

Fashion for Life

Fashion for Life is part of the annual Relay for Life, in aid of the American Cancer Society. Come and see nine regions packed with the very best Second Life has to offer, the best designers, the top model agencies, the hottest trends, and the most amazing places you'll see! Fashion for Life runs from March 21st through the 29th.

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The Trace provides a new take on the whole beach scene. Perfect for photography and bloggers, enjoy bright sun, soothing water, and long, sandy tidal flats in this perfectly calming, sun-kissed region. 

The Trace

Come enjoy the quiet solitude of the Trace, no matter the season. The soothing beach provides paths, seaside sights, houses, props, and more. Come see serenity at it's best.

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Welcome to Rocket City, a fun and friendly furry community nestled in a fantastic forest. Flit and flutter through a fabulously famous land of foxes, fur, flowerbeds, friends, weekly events, and possibly even philosophy. This family-friendly region is, quite frankly, fun.

Rocket City

Rocket City is a fun and friendly PG furry community. This beautifully-wooded region offers weekly events, activities, or places to just relax and unwind. So what are you waiting for, come on in!

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Sparkys is an oddly whimsical, monochromatic region. This installation by Romy Nayar follows the story of a person living in a world of shadows and grey. This person has an idea, an idea he’s turned into an invention. A world-changing invention he calls “color.”

Sparkys by Romy Nayar

Welcome to Sparkys by Romy Nayar. The esteemed Doctor Nutty has discovered, thanks to the dear Sparkys, a substance that produces this new thing called "color." Join the residents as they experience the joy of this bright new substance.

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Every spring, Aero Pines throws an Easter-themed hunt to celebrate the holiday. The seventh annual Eggapalooza Spring Hunt covers four regions and offers hundreds of prizes. Start spring with a bang at Eggapalooza!

EggaPalooza Spring Hunt

It's Eggapalooza! The 7th Annual EggaPalooza Spring Hunt at Aero Pines Park spans 4 regions. Hike, bike, ride, or drive to find hundreds of gift eggs hidden in plain sight. Great fun for groups, families, explorers, and avid hunters. The event runs from March 1st through May 31st.

Visit in Second Life

If you have an event or region you’re particularly proud of, send it in and share it with Second Life. Or check out what your fellow Residents are up to over at the official Second Life Flickr page. See you inworld!

The 8th Annual Virtual Worlds Best Practices in Education (VWBPE) Conference focuses on education in immersive virtual environments like Second Life. Driven by educators and for educators, this open conferences looks closely at the ways in which virtual world platforms can be leveraged in classrooms, universities, and other learning applications.

Last year’s event drew a global audience representing 45 different countries and consisted of 80 presentations over a three day period.

This year, Ebbe Altberg - CEO of Linden Lab -  will address Virtual Education in Second Life & in the Future in his opening Keynote at the SL-Main Auditorium starting at 1 PM SLT.

Plan your schedule ahead of time by visiting the VWBPE website. There will be a Pre-Show and staff available starting at 10 AM SLT to help answer your questions prior to the conference. Drop by the VWBPE Gateway Coffee Shop/Patio for information, swag, and details on the event scavenger hunt.

Don’t miss out - register for this conference, sync your calendars, and prepare to learn something new.

If you can't make it inworld, much of the content will be streamed live here.

It’s time to share a sample platter of all of the weird and wonderful regions in the Second Life Destination Guide. Evil apples, dilapidated islands, pulsing bass, and a whole lot more await Residents looking to experience some new and exciting places in Second Life.

Snow White, Eve, Athena and the Trojan War… Apples don’t always lead to a happy story. This installation by Rebecca Bashly explores various myths, legends, and fairytales to show apples as symbols of the darkness hiding behind something sweet and innocuous.

When Life Gives You Apples... Run

Looking at various myths, legends and fairy tales, apple seems to be pretty unfortunate for women... Rebeca Bashly takes the lead at LEA 6 for the final round of the LEA full-sim art series, as curated by Jayjay Zifanwe.

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A gorgeously grimy, tumbledown region, Ruins delights in the decrepit. In this new creation by Cica Ghost, wander through an island of skeletal brick pillars under grey skies, flat water, and the wrathful eyes of crows. Embrace decrepitude in Ruins.

Ruins

Only blackbirds and wildflowers remain to inhabit the ruins of this once-active city. Explore this beautiful and decrepit locale of collapsed brick edifices. What deserted worlds will be revealed?

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A steampunk ode to Jules Verne, Sargasso Sealab offers undersea exploration, roleplay, and a gas-lit lab full of brassy Victorian goodness. Take the underwater elevator down for weekly roleplay sessions, or just enjoy the watery region as a human or mer.

Sargasso SeaLab

Take a journey to the mysterious Sargasso Sealab, an adventurous locale in homage to Jules Verne. Arrive by a sea-elevator deep in the Bermuda triangle, hunt for treasure, rare fish, meet the mysterious merfolk, or explore the station itself. Enjoy exploring the station, even join the weekly episodic role-play group if you'd like.

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A fantastical re-imagining of Italy, Tudor is a lush romantic land. Soft, warm pastel lighting, gorgeous foliage, flowering trees, and  loads of spots for cuddling … explore Tudor with a friend or loved one for maximum enjoyment.  

Tudor

Tudor is a beautiful place to hang out and cuddle with loved ones, or just chill and relax. Feel free to explore and take pictures of this wonderful location. Please, have respect for others.

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Pulsing beats, acid skulls, and multiple levels make Hardbass a wild club. This electronic venue pours out the bass in a wide variety of genres, all of them hard. Visit for live-streaming DJs and stay for the vibe - just make sure to get yourself to Hardbass.

Hardbass

Alright Second Life, if you want and love hard bass, Hardbass is your place. They play a ton of electronic genres, they've got live DJ's and more at this club. All are welcome.

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Second Life is perfect for showing off lasting virtual creations, so polish up those destinations and share them with us! Even if you’re sharing something as simple as a new hairstyle on the Flickr page, the virtual world runs on your creativity. Spread it around!

Once again, it’s time to show off a small selection of the many and varied regions in the Second Life Destination Guide. With charities, holidays, pubs, and more, this weekend’s a great time to experience some the fun things available in Second Life.

It’s time for the official Relay for Life of Second Life’s Kickoff Celebration! The start of 2015’s fundraising season is packed with ceremonies, live musical performances, DJ’s, a bring-your-own-kiosk party, and good times all around. Be sure to visit http://relayforlifeofsecondlife.org/ to learn more.

2015 Relay for Life Kickoff Celebrations

It is time to kickoff another season for Relay For Life of Second Life! Join them for two days of DJ's, live performers, celebrations, and more on American Cancer Society Island! Everything starts on March 7th, visit www.relayforlifeofsecondlife.org for more information.

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Delve into a bewildering Escher-inspired landscape in Metamorphosis Exhibition. Designed to inspire visitors to create 2D objects in 3D spaces, and this installation boasts a myriad of cubes, arches, staircase mazes, kaleidoscopic villages, and interconnecting animals.

Metamorphosis Exhibition

Metamorphosis is full-region art installation inspired by Esher's Reptiles and Altrani, Amalfi coast artwork. Created by Relay for Life and Fantasy Faire builder Beq Janus. Take a journey through the eyes of Escher and reflect on how Second Life inspires people to transform the 2D into 3D.

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If a dystopian future ruled by evil corporations is on your role-play wishlist, Era of Salvation is a place you won't want to miss. Taking place in the year 2082, enter the neon-lit darkness of Metroplex 17 as you make your way through a dark world of mega corporations and augmented humanity.

Era of Salvation

Era of Salvation takes place in the gritty, futuristic, neon-lit mega-city known as Metroplex 17. Taking place in the year 2082, enter a world of mega-corporations and augmented humanity. EoS is an immersive environment for role-players to weave their own intricate stories in a completely original and amazing atmosphere.

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The Guy Fawkes Inn is everything you’re looking for in a British pub and nightclub. Take time out from a busy day to chat with friends, dance, and enjoy a pint (or two). Just be sure to stand your round, huh?

The Guy Fawkes Inn

The Guy Fawkes Inn is a British-inspired pub and nightclub, built by British Residents for an authentic experience. Set in the Britannia sim, the Guy Fawkes Inn is inspired by the London historical icon Guy Fawkes. Enjoy a beer at the bar, a dance in the club, or a beer in the sun out by the pond!

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early at 2015 St. Patrick Day’s Town! This yearly build returns with rainbows, brimming pots of gold, dancing, food, gifts, and a whole lot of green. So dance a jig and join the festivities today.

2015 St. Patrick's Day Town

The all-out festive atmosphere of St. Patrick's Day Town will blow through your senses like a virtual Irish breeze. Ride on flying gold coins, dance a jig with leprechauns, drink green beer, sing along with friends at the piano, and fill your basket with everything Irish. The most colorful party is waiting for you, so follow the rainbow to St. Patrick's Day Town.

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As great as these destinations are, we always love seeing what you do next. So share your creations! Or show off that new look in the official Second Life Flickr page.

This episode of the Drax Files: World Makers focuses on the “perfectly imperfect” perspective of Nylon Pinkney. Nylon Pinkney is the owner of the virtual clothing and accessories store Nylon Outfitters - a brand that Drew Carey has mentioned as a favorite - and even had a hand in designing some of the original starter avatars in Second Life.

As a wedding photographer who deals with challenging clients in her offline career, Nylon enjoys expressing her whimsical artistic side in Second Life - applying her skills t o her brands as well as her region - Tableau. Check out Tableau for what Nylon describes as a “bombed out southwestern desert” from a Jersey girl’s point-of-view.

Watch the

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Want to see more personal Second Life stories? Find all the previous episodes at Draxtor’s Website or below:

The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 1: Kriss Lehmann
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 2: Jo Yardley
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 3: Eshi Otawara
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 4: Fantasy Faire / RFL
The Drax Files: World Makers - Episode 5: Engrama

It’s time again to show off a few of the newest experiences and intricate locations in the Second Life Destination Guide. Make time to immerse yourself in the great destinations below.

Relay for Life of Second Life is back with the Paint Second Life Purple fundraiser. Paint Second Life Purple asks people to do just that: paint selves, clothing, homes, landscapes, and pretty much everything else purple. The event lasts through March 7th, visit www.relayforlifeofsecondlife.com to learn more.

Paint Second Life Purple

It is time to paint the grid purple again for of cancer awareness and fundraising. Join Relay For Life of Second Life for the start of the 2015 relay season. Paint Second Life Purple Week takes place from February 21st through March 7th. Turn your house, land, prim, even yourself purple! For more information, visit www.relayforlifeofsecondlife.org.

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Speculum is the newest installation by artist Giovanna Cerise. Too large to view from the ground, you’ll need to take to the sky to experience the entirety of this huge exhibit. What will you see in the mirror of Speculum?

Speculum

Giovanna Cerise presents the latest installation, Speculum. In Speculum, the mirror is multiplicity and continuous playback. It overlaps and obfuscates, as illusions are wont to do. The mirror is a projection into an unreal dimension. Where does it lead?

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The Moulin Rouge is a neo-Victorian, community-themed roleplay region with loads of live stage shows, cabarets, burlesque and more. Active for more than seven years, the Moulin Rouge is a great spot for anyone with romance on their minds.

The Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is a community-themed roleplay sim with entertainment, romance, residential life, and shopping. They also offer weekly live events, burlesque, and live stage shows! Relax at a bistro, explore gardens, the Eiffel tower, take a romantic hot air balloon or boat ride – they're a perfect destination for romance.

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In Blithe’s forested park, breezes whisper through trees, fireflies flicker, and horses graze around artfully rusting trucks. You can even relax with someone special in rustic houses on mirror-still ponds. Blithe is a calming region built with an eye for nature.

Blithe

Come explore the enchanting world of Blithe, an expansive two-sim region with plenty to discover. Wander the wooded pathways, enjoy the rocky coast, cozy up and dance with a loved one or friend. There's so much to see and do at Blithe. You can even join the inworld group to rez your own items for photographs and more! Get lost in the captivating world of Blithe.

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An easy-to-join freeform roleplay zone, Helion Alpha is a slick sci-fi region welcoming to all. Active players can claim living spaces, and faction leaders can even take over entire headquarters. Ignore the dross, go to Helion Alpha for sci-fi roleplay in its purest form.

Helion Alpha

Helion Alpha is a LGBTQ-friendly sci-fi roleplay region featuring freeform roleplay in a moderate-rated setting. Choose between mercenary, pilot, outlaw, scarper, or replicant. Come play, hang out, or just tour this amazing build. Active players can claim living spaces, and faction leaders can even take over entire headquarters! There's no applications, sign-ups, weapons, meters, or hassles.

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If you’ve just finished adding the final few touches to your next great creation, don’t forget to share it with the rest of the community! There’s still a little over a week to send in those submissions for the Photo Booth Fun Contest, it runs all the way through March 4th. If you’re looking for inspiration, sneak a peek at what your fellow Residents are up to in the official Second Life Flickr page. See you inworld!

Are you an educator seeing positive results from using Second Life? We’d love to hear from you! Please join us in this Education Forum thread to share your answers to the following questions:

1. What educational organization do you represent?
2. How do you use SL in your educational endeavors?
3. Most importantly, what positive results have you seen from using SL?

From direct conversations, press coverage, and the like, we’ve heard of a number of organizations seeing positive results using Second Life for education, but we’re always eager to hear more and we hope you’ll add your voice to the thread.

Thanks!

The weekend is just around the corner and, as always, the Second Life Destination Guide is packed to the brim with slick builds, beautiful regions, and exciting events!

Pandora Box of Dreams is a gorgeous, artistic series set in dreams. Their first dream is titled Dreams of Sakura, but expect something new and equally intricate every couple of months. So jump in the bed and drift away to the imaginative dreamscape of Pandora Box of Dreams.

Pandora Box of Dreams

Pandora Box of Dreams is a creative region setting for the visionaries and creative minds who seek a place where dreams come to life. They also have a flickr group where artists can share their experiences: http://bit.ly/1KPz8Jz.

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A highly-detailed swamp with that down-home feeling, Crystal Gardens is a joy to wander through. Whether you’re looking for art shows, misty docks, gorgeous houses, or romantic dancing, you’re sure to find it at Crystal Gard

Crystal Gardens

Welcome to Crystal Gardens, home of the Crystal Gardens Live Music Venue. Come try boating, art exhibits hangouts and more. Enjoy your visit to Crystal Gardens!

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To quote Arthur C. Clarke, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” Few art installations embody incomprehensible technology as well as Omnibus. Venture through a machine composed of moving colors and rhythmic shapes in this ever-changing, symmetrical region.

Omnibus

Presented more than four years ago, come see a special current showing of Omnibus at the Linden Endowment for the Arts.

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Seemingly ripped straight out of a dance movie, Republic Club is a veritable feast for the senses. Feel a need for pulsing lights, pounding tunes, and live DJ events? Head on over to Republic Club and let the music take control.

The Republic Club

The Republic Club caters for people of all types and all musical tastes. Owned and managed by an experienced team with some of the best DJ's in Second Life, they run regular events and have much to offer visitors. Come be part of the Republic Nation and enjoy great tunes, meet some amazing people, make new friends, and have a great time!

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Makeahla Jungle is a soothing and beautiful jungle island packed with wildlife. Dedicated to animal rights, visit Makeahla to learn about conservation, preservation, and what you can do to help maintain nature in all her pristine glory. Or swing by for the beach parties, exploration and couples-friendly safaris throughout this vibrant region.

Makeahla Jungle

Makheala Jungle is a place for mankind to remember what is important. To remember that which we should co-exist with, that which we should preserve. There is a large variety of wildlife, activities, jungle fun and more. Take time to visit Makeahla Jungle.

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Few things are as exciting as that first teleport into a brand new region, so keep on sharing those new creations. If your preferred method of creation is more picture composition than world-building, we’ve got an official Flickr page for that. And for you serial prize-winners, the Photo Booth Fun Contest runs all the way through March 4th. Don’t wait, there are prizes on the line!