Like many core SL users, the OpenSpace fiasco inspired us to look around seriously at alternatives to relying solely upon Linden Lab. The OpenSim software, which is open source and free, seemed worthy of review as we could reuse our existing SL inventory and we hear that IBM and Microsoft are starting to contribute code and actually using the software somehow.

We have been testing the OpenSim software on our own very own Rezzable Private Grid Alpha (not associated with any other opengrid) for the last 2 months or so and I wanted to share some notes about what we have find out. Big thanks to the OpenSim code gurus Stefan and Darren over at Tribal Media who supported us on this test and are currently continuing to maintain our Private Grid with us.

Our first 2 stress test parties were a major success, which would not have been possible without a large turn out of avatars willing to expose themselves to the uncertainties of a new grid and new looks. A big "cheer" to our unselfish, bug-reporting test crowd thus! Where our first night of stress test partying could be described as 'crashy' - but hey, you can definitely learn from this too! - the second party was, as promised, more stable and smooth. We tested Greenies load, no-script Greenies load (a huge difference!), map teleport, bouncing heads, and hunted for more bugs (not those virtual roaches, this time).

Before I share some of my person conclusions - and pictures - on this subject, I'd love to share this great machinima of the 'Greenies' part of the Stress Test filmed by Zonja Capalini:

Let me first say a huge 'Thank you!' to all avatars (and their humans) that enjoyed the virtual pleasures of crashing & woot-I'm-not-crashing last night... and then guarantee them we've learned and made a few adjustments that will ensure there will be more Party and less Stress this evening.  A quick summary of the 1st Stress Party would go something like: "Maxed Greenies to the crash, learned a lot and bounced around party-style at Rezzable 3. Oh, and physics is still a b*tch." Tonight - 1PM SLT also - we're aiming for: "Party! (and a bit of stress testing still)" The changes:

Update: Manual activation for Alpha testing accounts is no longer needed. You can do all yourself now. More information here.

Rezzable is proud to announce the opening of our 'Rezzable Alpha Grid' - based on the OpenSim system - for testing by our fellow virtual world citizens, and invite you to take part in it. Currently we are running eight sims, including a replica of Greenies Home and a bunch of empty ones with plywood in them. Our stress tests will take place at Greenies OpenSim Home and takes the form of a giant party, with host Angelina Rhode. (Yeah, we've duplicated her too! ;)) Theme: Find the 7 Differences. Dates are Wednesday December 17th and Thursday December 18th starting 1PM SLT.