This paper examines two aspects of multi-user virtual reality (VR) systems; the
socio-technical shaping of these systems and the social relations inside
multi-user virtual worlds. The paper begins with an overview of the history of
networked interactive computer graphics and examines the main factors which are
currently shaping networked VR systems. The second part explores the social
relations between users inside virtual worlds and makes comparisons with other
forms of computer-mediated-communication. In the conclusion, these two parts are
linked: how is the development of multi-user virtual reality technology
influencing how users interact within virtual worlds - and vice versa?
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