This multiplayer game allows users to connect with their friends and embark on emotionally-engaging grand adventures in a living world that is persistent, social and rewarding. The adventure has multiple story arcs that surprise and delight players for the life of the game. A user can choose to simply experience the adventure, or they can help create it. Becoming part of VU is rewarding and easy for gamers and non-gamers alike. Whether the user is in the game or not, the universe and storyline continues moving forward. VU is part game, part social network, and part social creation platform. It blends elements of Minecraft, Second Life and Simcity with innovative artificial-intelligence technologies that drive engagement. To create the most realistic and convincing forms of interaction, VU uses patent-pending engagement technologies that modify experiences in real-time based upon data from the player and input from elements in the experience.