Multiverse Network outlined a developer tool intended to use 3D models from Google SketchUp and terrain data from Google Earth in online games and virtual worlds.
The planned project, called Architectural Wonders, was designed to simplify access to Google’s interfaces and datasets. Multiverse said this could reduce the cost of building virtual environments for smaller development studios.
The company expected to announce cooperation with Google and presented the project at the Virtual Worlds Conference in San Jose.
Multiverse distinguished the tool from reports of a separate Google project based on Google Earth. It argued that virtual-world development should extend beyond reproducing existing retail and media concepts in 3D.
