How to Make Your Own Anime Character & Chat

Anime is a particular cartoon style originating in Japan and characterized by the character's overly large eyes, big and colorful hair and exaggerated facial expressions. Anime virtual world sites like Gaia Online, Kinsaki and Roliana let the user make her own anime character, then provide virtual worlds where the characters can chat and interact in a variety of social situations such as at virtual restaurants and shops. Characters invite each other to their respective homes, created like the characters with the same programming that allows the users such freedom with their avatar characters. The anime character is made by the user choosing each individual element of the character's personal appearance and wardrobe, thereby carefully creating an anime online alter ego.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet connection

Instructions

1. Choose the anime site that appeals most to the user in both artistic style and atmosphere, then log on and create an account if necessary, as an account is often required by site protocol for the user to enter into and engage in chat forums.

2. Select a male or female anime character to create, then begin building the character by selecting a skin tone and facial shape, then adding the chosen eyes, brows, nose, mouth and hair. Choose the colors, shapes and placement of these features.

3. Use the mix-and-match functions to try on different outfits until the user is pleased with the character's outfit. Add accessories such as stockings, shoes, hats, gloves, jewelery, bags and pets.

4. Save the anime character and, through the character, enter the common area of the virtual world where the characters interact and chat with one another. These areas are usually accessible through a button or tab marked "Forums," "Chat," "Communities" or "Neighborhoods."

5. Move the anime character up to another character that's visible on screen and click on the button that enables the chat function, usually marked "Chat" or "Speak." Enter your greeting in the pop-up box as with any instant messaging program and press "Enter" to send the greeting to the other character.

6. Click "Respond" above or below the chat window that automatically appears when an anime character approaches and speaks first. Type the response in the box as with any instant messaging program and press "Enter" to deliver the response.

Tips & Warnings

• Become familiar with the rules of the chosen virtual world as the rules generally outline what subjects and language, if any, are off limits and not allowed.

References

• Gaia Online
• Kinsaki
• Roliana