How to Use Zwinky

Zwinky is a social networking website launched in 2006 that anyone aged 13 or older can use to create a customized avatar. Create a character that matches your real identify or is complete fantasy. You can chat with other Zwinky friends, add your Zwinky to other websites, have fun updating your character's look and interact with other Zwinky characters in the virtual world of Zwinktopia.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Download the Zwinky toolbar then register and create an account. You must provide personal information including an email address in order to have all the site's functions. Zwinky is accessible from your browser toolbar, email and IM program.

2. Create a customized male or female avatar. Start with a body type, skin tone, eye color and hairdo. Choose an outfit and a wide-range of accessories. Add details including, makeup, tattoos, hobbies, pets, even a PDA.

3. Update your Zwinky's appearance as often as you want by clicking the "Open Wardrobe" link. Select "Create a new outfit." Make changes to your clothes, expression and accessories. Click the "Save Outfit" button.

4. Share personal information with friends using the profile page. Include user name, gender, age and interests. All users under age 18 have a private profile page.

5. Add your Zwinky to other social networking profiles, such as MySpace, blogs and other websites.

6. Make friends with other Zwinky characters. Chat, "whisper" private messages or post Znotes on another Zwinky's profile page. Find other Zwinky friends online and join them or invite them to your location.

7. Travel around Zwinktopia, meet friends, play games and earn money. Spend Zbucks on clothing items for your Zwinky in the mall boutiques. Earn Zchievements in Zwinktopia then use them to unlock items in your Wardrobe.

Tips & Warnings

• Pick a username that does not contain your real name for security reasons.
• All information on your Zwinky Profile Page is accessible by the general public unless it is set to private.