Many years ago, back when the entire internet looked like MySpace and everything seemed possible (2000), Ian, Alex Bund and I put together a proof of concept for a project called 3D&D. Essentially in was a super nerdy version of Habbo Hotel, based on the same engine, that at that time was being used for a site created by Sulake called Mobiles Disco (basically a cut down Habbo Hotel (WTF is a Habbo, anyway?), although not specifically aimed at teens). The user would have a quirky Lord of the Rings/ Eboy fantasy-themed avatar, and would be able to chat and explore in much the same way you’re able to in Habbo, but with an added XP grind, in the manner of World of Warcraft.

After a couple of meetings it transpired we didn’t have the skillz necessary to make it work, and didn’t have a developer on hand to solve our problems for us, so the project fizzled out. The subsequent sale, seven years later, of avatar based social network for kids Club Penguin for $700 million has caused me to regret this decision somewhat.

What with Facebook apps with no viable monetization plan going for $3 million dollars these days, I’m tempted to kick start it again, although Sulake dont appear to be offering their engine for free anymore, unfortunately. Are they even still *making* Director?

*Edit

Also, this looks very similar in concept. Mashable write up here.
Again also, this.