Nirvanet, 1997
http://www.nirvanet.com
Nirvanet takes us on a virtual journey into a fascinating future. Published in four languages this Webzine contains information pertaining mainly to music and culture. It was founded in 1997 by the Belgian company Global Theater Network, pioneers of the Internet and European leaderts in Webcasting and the organization of multimedia events. The site won the UNESCO 1998 Web prize for the remarkable quality of its virtual community creation, excellent design, high-calibre cultural content and interactive capabilities in creating a new cultural and artistic space.
Nirvanet content is certainly varied. It is constantly enriched with live performances that visitors may select directly from the Bruxelles Cybertheatre and the Paris Rex. The site branches into several section. The "CD" section provides the visitor with CD excerpts of the week or of preceding weeks. One may also access varied information about the musicians and DJs. Nirvanet fully satisfies gamers every week with reviews of new video games. Some games are freely available to download on the site. A visitor wanting to try a game can play with partners also navigating the site. Each week, Nirvanet not TV suggests a series of videos to watch on the Net. What's important gathers information on various subjects having significant impact on things to come.
Nirvanet is also Zen Planet, a section containing information about our planet, the evolution of the universe and its mysteries. Suprasonic provides music to listen to on the Web. The Webzine includes a collection of links to Web sites concerning musical events as well as to wired European night clubs connect to Nirvanet. One can participate in contests, send electronic post cards, collaborate in discussions and be informed of all that is happening in the cultural scene.
Navigation is intuitive, pleasant, and always interactive. Nirvanet offers a light-hearted, interesting experience. Once the visitor has navigated Nirvanet, she will have no problem understanding why the site merited the UNESCO 1998 Web prize. The site is complete, the very image of cyber culture.
Magalie Tremblay
