Virtual world

I find it bizarre when people really do live in a virtual world when we have our real lives to live. I don't think it will become more popular in the next few years but I don't think it's popularity will dwindle either. One aspect of the virtual world that I don't mind is sites offered for kids such as Webkinz and Littlest Pet Shop. To participate in these sites the child needs to first buy an actual stuffed animal that comes with a code. This code registers them on the site allowing the kids to name their pet, feed and play with them. They can 'buy' toys and accessories for the virtual version of their pet as well. If they have friends who are also registered on one of these sites they can interact with them. I think this is a better use of a virtual world because it's just a game for these kids and they have the actual pet to take outside and play with. Kids do get attached to the virtual world but the majority of them are not allowed to sit on the computer hour after hour. Adults who are virtual world users get sucked in for hours and it can begin to replace pieces of their actual life. I know I'm talking about the extreme users, but that's enough to turn me off from virtual worlds. There is a place on the internet for the virtual worlds but I don't think it will become more popular in the next few years and I also don't think it's popularity will dwindle.