If memory serves, it was around 2 years ago (maybe slightly longer) when Linden lab first dropped hints about a new Adult Hub for Second Life. It appears that any “coming soon” associated with the Hub was of the Blizzard variety, given that here we are, some two(ish) years later, and the hub has finally arrived.
Or at least I assume it has only recently arrived; there’s been no announcement that I’ve seen, nor any chat about it (although, in fairness, I try to avoid the Forums, where it may have been announced). In fact, I was only alerted to its presence in-world by long-time friend, Miro Collas – so thank you, Miro!
Called simply and appropriately the Adult Hub, the new facility is open to both existing and new residents – with mentors available to help the latter. In terms of setting, it has a strange semi sci-fi feel about it; not sure why – Adult activities are hardly constrained to that particular genre, but it does mark the hub as distinct from others the Lab has provided, with dark tones to the buildings, together with neon and LED-like lighting.
The Landing Point forms n open plaza with a heart motif, sitting in the centre of the major structures at the hub. The largest of these buildings is the Illusions Lounge – a club which, if I recall correctly, was featured in the early hints given about the Adult Hub back in 2024.
On either side of the steps leading up to the lounge are teleport portals. The three to the left offer access to newcomer friendly locations, the middle to adult clubs and entertainment and the third to arts and culture. The single portal to the right of the stairs links to the main SL Welcome Hub. The three “destination” portals also have adverts for the SL Destination Guide between them. Each of these portals also has a sign above it naming the current destination were one to step through it.
To either side of the Landing Point are maps of the entire region, highlighting the various buildings and other facilities. These comprise the swimming pool, facing the lounge from across the Landing Point and overlooking the main beach (itself with a nude beach to one side); a beachside fire pit; a glamping space with three A-frame tents and couples mattresses; the imaginatively names Sexy Spa and Sexy Hotel; and The Fall, which form a part of the hub’s extensive gardens and outdoor spaces.
Not directly annotated (but still shown) on the map are these saunas, the hub’s bar (which is linked via a terrace to the Sexy Hotel), and the walks through the gardens and outdoor spaces. These are all also pointed to via the hub’s plentiful signage.
The hotel is deserving of particular mention. The ground-level foyer presents five private sky-base rooms, each one with a photo and an indicator as to whether it is available for use. Clicking the Availability sign will display a dialogue asking you to confirm if you wish to use the room for up to 30 minutes.
Responding “Yes” to this dialogue presents a further dialogue box explaining how to use the room on your own or with another guest or guests. When you have clicked your preferred choice (and entered the name of the other guest(s), if you are sharing), clicking the Available sign will teleport you to the room. As one might expect, the bed within each room includes adult animations. Each room also has an Exit door, which will return you to the Hotel foyer. Note that if you leave a room prior to your 30 minutes being up, you might not be able to select another room until your time has expired.
Similarly, most of the ground-level sitting positions – such as the glamping tents, the fire pit seats, the loungers at the pool and the various sitting spots secluded around the gardens all display a dialogue box when you first sit on them, allowing you to decide if you want to have sole control over their animation menu, or wish to share it with someone you are with. Very handy if you wish to avoid being disturbed by an unwanted guest. Also, like the hotel rooms, the Glamping tents are available for up to 30 minutes a session.
The beaches are both surprisingly light on places to sit – the main beach appears to be more geared towards dancing and events. The gardens are one of the most pleasing aspects of the hub, offering both somewhat secluded spots in which to pass the time as well as much needed colour through the flowerbeds, some of which are neatly and symmetrically placed around the main Landing Point, making it feel more welcoming and relaxed.
In all, the Adult Hub is pretty well done, and as I explore I found the black / neon / colour scheme growing on me. The overall design is nicely low-key and relaxed, the signage and information boards will placed and informative.
I did find one or two little glitches – the two maps at the Landing Point, for example, are supposed to be interactive (“Click locations for more information”), but this wasn’t working during my visit. That aside, I did like the neon 3D sculpture which, when views from the right angle forms the Second Life eye-in-hand logo, complete with a pair of horns and a devil’s tail.
It’ll be interesting to see how the Adult Hub fares and how new users are directed to it (criteria, etc.).
SLurl Details
- Adult Hub (rated Adult)
Inara Pey: Living in a Modemworld 