Avatar is an early graphics-based multi-user highly interactive role-playing computer game, created on the University of Illinois' Control Data Corporation PLATO system in the late 1970s. It has graphics for navigating through a dungeon and chat-style text for player status and communication with others. It can currently be played online via Cyber1 or a simulation called Javatar. What makes Avatar popular is the high level of interactivity with other players and the sense of community that develops. Development on Avatar began on the University of Illinois PLATO system around 1977; the first version was released by Bruce Maggs, Andrew Shapira, and David Sides in 1979.
Frequently asked questions
Is Avatar dead or still active?
Avatar is listed as released, but we don't have a recent player-count estimate that shows current activity, so we can't confirm whether it is still busy. We publish one as soon as there is enough fresh data.
When was Avatar released?
Avatar was released in December 1979 by Andrew Shapira, Bruce Maggs, David Sides, Greg Janusz, Mark Eastom, and Tom Kirchman.
What platforms is Avatar available on?
Avatar is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.