Parallel Realities: My Journey Through Somnium Space

When I first set foot in Somnium Space back in late 2019 or early 2020, I had no idea how profoundly it would change my life. Back then, I was curious about the metaverse — a term still finding its footing — and intrigued by the concept of immersive digital worlds. I wasn’t a builder. I wasn’t a (hardcore) coder. I certainly didn’t think of myself as an artist or a journalist. But Somnium Space had a way of pulling something unexpected out of me.

What started as casual exploration quickly evolved into something far more meaningful. I began tinkering with Unity, slowly learning how to bring ideas to life in 3D space. I was surprised by how much I loved it — not just building, but learning. Creating. Experimenting. I felt free in a way I hadn’t felt before.

In time, I became a gallery owner, commissioning artwork from talented creators in the community. It was deeply rewarding to support digital artists and provide them a home in the metaverse. I began to realize that Somnium wasn’t just a virtual space; it was a platform for creativity, expression, and human connection.

Somnium Space inspired artwork by my friend Marcello Simonetti

That’s when the idea for Somnium Times was born. There were so many stories happening — not just code and cubes, but people. I wanted to capture those stories, give voice to a new world taking shape in real time. So I did. Somnium Times became a place to document the evolution of the metaverse — its culture, events, innovations, and the people building its foundations.

And let’s not forget the friendships. Real ones. Some of the deepest connections I’ve made over the past few years began in Somnium. I’ve laughed, celebrated, collaborated, and even mourned alongside fellow citizens. These aren’t avatars to me. They are friends. Creators. Visionaries. Family.

Fireside chat with friends in Somnium Space (picture by Shodah)

Over time, I got more deeply involved — buying land, vehicles, motorcycles, and becoming more and more immersed in Somnium’s ecosystem. I began experimenting with cinematography, using Somnium’s professional filming tools like drone cameras, exploring visual storytelling in an entirely new medium.

Artist impression of the NFT beast I occasionally ride in Somnium Space

Not long ago, I acquired the Somnium VR1 headset. Why? Because Somnium Space is serious about building the future of open, persistent virtual reality. And so am I. The VR1 is more than just state of the art hardware — it represents a commitment to the idea that the metaverse can and should be a space where privacy, ownership, and immersion intersect. It’s also a reflection of how far I’ve come — from tentative newcomer to fully invested citizen.

Yes, I consider myself a Somnium citizen. This world, once just a curiosity, has become a parallel reality for me — one as real and impactful as the physical world. Here, I’ve been able to explore creativity, build a career, form friendships, and push the boundaries of what I thought was possible.

The amazing Somnium VR1

Somnium Space gave me more than tools or tech. It gave me purpose. It challenged me to grow. And it continues to evolve — faster than ever — pulling us into a future where realities blend and digital lives hold real meaning.

This isn’t just the story of Somnium. It’s mine. And it can be yours too.