The Metaverse: Everyone is talking about it, but no one is sure what it really is. This makes it a bit difficult if we want to put together a list of platforms or experiences that represent the best of what could be.

But if we understand what persistent and connected digital environments that focus on providing immersive experiences for users means, we can try to highlight some projects, existing and on the horizon, that stand out.

Not all of the projects featured here involve virtual reality, decentralization, or cryptocurrency. While those are all the technologies that are likely to have a place in the metaverse, it’s not strictly essential that they be part of every…