Škoda enters the metaverse with the launch of Škodaverse – Ledger Insights

Car manufacturer Škoda has launched his first experience in the metaverse, run on The Nemesis web3 platform with Klar plays me avatars. The blockchain enabled Škodaverse aims to offer immersive virtual experiences as well as NFTs for Škoda customers.

Users can create their own full-body 3D avatars, explore eMobility tools and take part in virtual test drives of the ŠKODA ENYAQ COUPÉ RS iV. In addition, art enthusiasts can visit the Škoda NFT Gallery to see “We love cycling” NFT gathering celebrating female cyclists.

A quick metaverse review

Compared to some other web3 metaverse experiences, this one felt richer with a few nice features. But it would help if you had a little patience. First, on a laptop, it took a good three minutes to load something in the browser. And given the lack of a progress indicator, you can assume it’s not working.

What was nice about that? In addition to the 3D NFT gallery, you can go to the sea, where there is a swimming pool. And if you accidentally slip into the water, it turns out your avatar can swim. There is an arcade where you can play games. And you can even take a test drive in a Skoda. Don’t be disappointed that when you hit another Skoda, it doesn’t seem to get a dent.

Overall, for creativity, at this stage of metaverse development, the Skodaverse scores high marks. But usability, not so much.

I had heard about the Skoda test drive and wanted to try it, but after visiting the beach I couldn’t find my way back. I ended up reloading and had the extra three minute wait. I almost got stuck in the arcade the same way, but eventually realized I could jump on top of the elevator. The arcade had some games, but the games had no instructions. Maybe they are obvious to some, but not all!

So while TheNemesis might be a little more glitchy than other web3 metaverse experiences, because it’s richer, I was more inclined to give it another try in the future.

Others take the plunge

Škoda is not the only car manufacturer betting on metaverse and NFT as a marketing strategy in 2022. Skoda is part of the VW group, and Volkswagen South Africa launched a NFT advertising campaign for the arrival of its new Polo this year. Lamborghini also launched its third NFT project titled “The epic road trip“, a series of digital collectibles that culminated in the unveiling of a new Lamborghini model.

Ready Player Me’s cross-game avatars were also selected in a recent Ozworld shoe collection project launched by Adidas. Ready Player Me allows digital characters to traverse the metaverse across 1,500 apps and games.