What are some good virtual communities?

[Teagan]

I'm trying to make some new friends online, but I'm not sure where to go. Don't tell me to go out and make friends in the real world, please. I just want some online buddies.

Anyhow, em, yes. What are some good virtual communities? Forum-based or where you can walk around and such. Preferably avatar-based.

Please don't suggest Second Life or Facebook (Twitter, etc.).

Thanks in advance!

[John McCarthy]

Habbo.com is pretty good. Used to play it a while ago.

[PrinceofPopcorn]

http://www.gaiaonline.com/

Gaiaonline is pretty cool. You get to make an avatar dress it up, there are also forums, you can walk around with your avatar in towns to meet people, there is also an RPG which you use your avi, and other cool stuff.