If you are wondering what life might be when the metaverse is in full force, a good place to start is with the film, Ready, Player One, in which a character is called upon to save the world while actually battling enemies in a virtual world. He has a groovy avatar (similar to him but “enhanced,” so to speak) and he also makes a beautiful girlfriend (who also has a cool avatar). There is no doubt that the metaverse will be taking over our lives in many ways. Mark Zuckerberg predicts that human beings will be spending a significant percentage of our lives in these fantastical worlds, both for work and for play. The question remains: how will the metaverse affect our sexuality?
Sexual Fun and Fantasy
The adult industry is very much making its inroads into the metaverse, with Playboy working on a MetaMansion and one company has created a four-floor sexual wellness space in Decentraland—a metaverse you can visit without the need for VR goggles. The space contains educational videos, a rooftop dance club, an NFT art gallery featuring erotic works, and more. Users are able to use their own tech—be it a vibrator or male masturbator, while viewing imagery and art that puts them “in the mood.” The metaverse can highlight new ways to use your sex tech, present you with an array of fantastical words that can inspire you, and provide education on issues you may find awkward discussing in real life.
Sexual Health Support
Many people have issues they are reluctant to talk about with others (including health professionals). For instance, many men struggle with erectile dysfunction, which can cause everything from embarrassment to anxiety. Cultural and social norms can make it hard for men to share this personal struggle. Imagine a health clinic in the metaverse where men could talk to a doctor or therapist to receive information and support. Men can already be given a heads-up on the types of treatment available, and referred to experienced professionals specializing in this area. They can also be given advice on lifestyle choices that can improve their symptoms. Diet, exercise, good sleep, and weight loss can all be factors that affect one’s sexual health and wellbeing.
The metaverse is attracting the attention of visionaries from a host of industries—including those of sex and sexuality. On the one hand, consumers can shop and interact with products online, getting a better idea of what each ‘toy’ is for before they make a purchase. Users can also receive information on sexual health as a whole as well as any problems that may be wresting from their sexual wellness.