USAGeorge Xbox Avatar 800 x 600

An avatar is a computer user's representation of himself / herself or alter ego, whether in the form of a three-dimensional model used in computer games, a two-dimensional icon used on Internet forums and other communities, or a text construct found on early systems such as MUDs. It is an “object” representing the embodiment of the user. The term "avatar" can also refer to the personality connected with the screen name, or handle, of an Internet user. Nintendo's Wii console allows for the creation of avatars called "Miis" that take the form of stylized, cartoonish people and can be used in some games as avatars for players, as in Wii Sports. In some games, the ability to use a Mii as an avatar must be unlocked, such as in Mario Kart Wii. Microsoft recently announced a new Xbox 360 Dashboard update which features the introduction of Avatars. Users will be able to personalize the look of their own set Avatar, by choosing from a range of clothing and facial features. This feature can be found in the dashboard, but will also be incorporated into games, including a video game version of the popular Endemol game show 1 vs. 100. PlayStation Home for Sony's PlayStation 3 console also features the use of avatars, but are more realistic looking than Nintendo's Miis or Microsoft's Avatars.

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