An Entity-Component Model for Extensible Virtual Worlds

The open source realXtend project has developed a freely available open source virtual world platform that lets anyone create 3D applications. RealXtend is fully implemented in the new Tundra SDK and in an add-on for the OpenSimulator server. The framework treats fundamental elements of virtual worlds (such as support for avatars) as an add-in functionality, so the overall architecture can accommodate a wider range of virtual worlds. Attribute values are automatically synchronized among the participants in a networked environment. A core API provides basic functionality for GUIs, controller input, audio, and means for 3D scene manipulation for application code.