Somnium Space: The Metaverse Where You Own the World

Picture this: you slip on your VR headset and spawn into a massive open playground buzzing with energy. Here, you’re not just a player, but you also interact with other players. Welcome to Somnium Space, one of the most exciting gaming metaverse platforms out there.

As digital lives blend more with reality, Somnium Space stands out by combining virtual reality, blockchain, and social interaction. It’s much more than just a game or a chat room; it’s a virtual space where you own what you create, making your digital experiences as valuable as real life.

If you’re a VR fan, a digital artist, a crypto enthusiast, or just curious about gaming interactions, Somnium Space is just the right drive for you.

Key Takeaway 

• Somnium Space is built on blockchain technology, meaning users truly own the digital items they buy.
• Somnium Space was founded in 2017 by Artur Sychov, a tech entrepreneur and futurist
• The value of land in Somnium Space is influenced by its location, views, size, and proximity to popular spots. 
• The Somnium Space community is a small but passionate group that’s friendly and welcoming
• Somnium’s value increases as more people use it; this is called a network effect.

What Is Somnium Space?

Somnium Space is a virtual reality (VR) metaverse built on Blockchain technology. It’s a fully immersive 3D digital world where you can interact and  socialize.

Think of it as a virtual city, where you can buy land, create experiences, and interact with other people in real time using avatars.

But unlike regular video games or apps, Somnium Space is built on blockchain technology, meaning users truly own the digital items. Everything from your virtual house to your avatar is an NFT (non-fungible token) that you can trade, sell, or customize.

Origins & Background of Somnium Space

Somnium Space was founded in 2017 by Artur Sychov, a tech entrepreneur and futurist passionate about virtual reality and decentralization. His vision was clear: build a persistent, open VR space where users, not corporations, own their experiences and assets.

Unlike other virtual platforms that are centrally controlled, Somnium empowers users through blockchain ownership. Artur wanted to ensure that people could truly own their virtual identity, land, and creations, and not just rent space on someone else’s server.

Company Structure and Global Presence

Somnium Space is operated by Somnium Space Ltd, a privately held company. Though its origins are European, the platform and its community are global. Developers, creators, investors, and users from around the world participate in building out the virtual world.

The company works closely with blockchain partners like Ethereum and Polygon, and collaborates with VR hardware companies and digital artists to keep pushing the limits of what’s possible in immersive technology. 

Key facts about the company:

• Headquartered in Switzerland, known for its crypto-friendly regulations.
• Maintains a distributed development team, with contributors from across the globe.
• Partners with blockchain giants like Polygon, OpenSea, and VR hardware manufacturers.

Access Options: Web, Desktop, Steam, PCVR, Oculus Quest

Whether you have a high-end VR headset or just a laptop, Somnium Space offers multiple ways to access the platform, so anyone can participate.

Here are the main options:

Web Browser (2D Access)

The simplest way to access Somnium is through your web browser. No downloads or VR gear needed,  just click a link and walk around the virtual world.

Desktop Client

Available for Windows, this version gives you higher performance and access to full features, including events and creator tools. Ideal for creators, landowners, and serious explorers.

Steam

Somnium is available on Steam, the world’s largest game distribution platform. Just download and launch like any other game.

PCVR (Virtual Reality on PC)

For the full immersive experience, connect your VR headset to a VR-ready PC and explore in real time. Supported headsets include:

• Oculus Rift
• HTC Vive
• Valve Index
• Windows Mixed Reality

Oculus Quest (Standalone)

You can also access Somnium Space on Meta (Oculus) Quest headsets by sideloading the app. It’s slightly more technical to set up, but once installed, you can explore without needing a PC.

SDK & Builder Tools Overview

Creating your own experience in Somnium Space is not just for coders or developers; it’s designed for everyone, including artists, event planners, and casual users. Here’s how you can build in Somnium:

Somnium Builder (Drag & Drop):

• A no-code tool for placing 3D objects, customizing your land, and designing buildings.
• Comes with a large library of items like furniture, lighting, music systems, and more.
• Perfect for beginners.

SDK (Software Development Kit):

• For advanced users, the SDK lets you import custom 3D models, write scripts, and create interactive objects using Unity or Web3 protocols.
• You can create things like teleporters, games, stores, or mini-worlds inside your land.

Web Tools + Blockchain Integration:

• Use Web3 wallets (like MetaMask) to connect, buy land, and upload NFTs.
• Earn money by selling digital goods, hosting ticketed events, or renting out your space.

In short, you can build almost anything in Somnium Space, from a virtual gallery to an entire amusement park.

Key Features in Somnium Space

Somnium Space is more than just a cool VR experience; it’s a functioning virtual world with its own land, economy, currency, and creative tools. Let’s break down what makes this metaverse so unique.

Virtual Land (PARCELs)

In Somnium Space, real estate is everything. These virtual plots of land are called PARCELs, and they’re the foundation of the world,  just like real-world property.

You don’t need to own land to enjoy Somnium Space, but if you’re interested in investing, here’s what you should know:

Each land parcel is a unique NFT (non-fungible token), just like real-world land. You can buy or sell land anytime through the OpenSea Marketplace, and all transactions are securely recorded on the Ethereum blockchain, ensuring you truly own your land.

The value of land is influenced by its location, views, size, and proximity to popular spots. Some parcels are close enough to connect to larger estates, allowing for taller builds. 

Somnium Space also offered special tokens that let you build higher, though availability is uncertain. If you’re looking to start small, you can rent land from other users for a minimal investment.

Once you own a parcel, you can turn it into anything you want:

• A home or office in the metaverse
• A virtual art gallery or concert venue
• A shop that sells NFTs or real-world merch

You can even monetize your land by charging entry fees to events, renting it to other users or hosting branded experiences or ads.

Build

Building in Somnium Space is as easy as you can imagine if you own LAND, no coding needed. Simply download the software from Steam and get started. 

Once you’re logged in, select ‘2D’ to access the user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and even run your designs in test mode. 

What sets this builder apart is its easy integration of video and audio options, making your scenes come alive.

Avatar

Your Somnium Space avatar is your virtual representation in the metaverse, similar to having a username on any website. It’s the 3D version of you.

• Registered Avatar Needed: Yes, for exploration. 
• Visit 1 Land in Browser: No, you can just browse without registering.
• Cost: Free
• Max Avatars: 1 per email or wallet. 
• NFT Status: Your avatar isn’t an NFT, and you can’t sell it.

Now, you can create and upload your own custom avatar using the Somnium Space Avatar SDK, allowing for unique expressions beyond just a standard look.

You can buy and sell avatars on the marketplace. You own full rights to your avatar; nobody can take it away or duplicate it.

What makes Somnium’s avatars special is that they are interoperable:

• You can use your avatar in other supported metaverses and platforms.
• It’s part of a broader Web3 vision, where your digital identity moves with you across virtual worlds.
• Avatars can also be fully animated, voice-capable, and motion-tracked when used in VR.

CUBE Token Economy

Somnium CUBES (CUBE) is a game currency built on the Ethereum blockchain (ERC20), enhancing the blockchain-based economy by enabling player-to-player transactions. It’s used to:

• Buy land, avatars, and in-game items
• Pay for services (like teleportation or events)
• Tip other users or creators

Starting in May 2020, the value of Somnium CUBES experienced a  25% increase in each quarter until March 2021. After that, prices were to be determined by the market.

You can use CUBES to buy or rent LAND and make in-game purchases, such as teleporting (features coming soon).

The live Somnium Space Cubes price today is $0.320004 USD with a 24-hour trading volume of $3,883.69 USD. This price keeps getting updated in real time. 

You can purchase CUBE tokens in two ways:

• Buy with fiat currency on the CoinPark exchange.
• Bid for them using Ethereum on the OpenSea marketplace.

Somnium Space community

The Somnium Space community is a small but passionate group that’s friendly and welcoming. Most members are keen on virtual reality, often gathering for VR meetups to explore new builds created by landowners.

While the community communicates via Discord, there’s a plan for future in-world meetings to discuss exciting topics. 

The Somnium Space team, led by Artur Sychov and a dedicated group of developers from the Czech Republic, has no plans to decentralize the platform. Somnium Space will always be owned and operated by the company.

Somnium Space roadmap

Check out the Somnium Space roadmap to stay updated on the project’s progress. It highlights what the team is working on in three categories: PLANNED, IN PROGRESS, and COMPLETE. 

Exciting upcoming features include underwater building, teleporter integration, and the Unity SDK. Don’t miss their Economy Paper, which shares the team’s vision for the project. 

For the latest updates and releases, follow Somnium Space on Twitter

User Onboarding: How to Join the Somnium Space

So, you’re ready to explore the Somnium metaverse? The good news is: getting started is easier than you think, and there are different ways to join. Whether you’re using a laptop, a powerful gaming PC, or a VR headset.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you jump into Somnium Space today.

Web Browser Access (No Download Needed)

If you’re just curious and want to explore Somnium Space without installing anything, you can visit it directly in your web browser. It’s best for first-time users, casual visitors, or anyone without a gaming PC.

• Open your browser (Chrome is recommended).
• Go to somniumspace.com.
• Click on “Explore in Web” or paste a direct parcel link if you have one.
• Jump in, walk around, and get a feel for the world

Desktop & Steam Client Access (Full 2D Experience)

For a more robust experience, especially if you’re planning to build or buy land, you’ll want to download the Somnium Space desktop client. You have two options:

Option 1: Direct Desktop Client

• Visit somniumspace.com/download.
• Choose the Windows installer and follow the prompts to install the app.
• Log in with your Web3 wallet (MetaMask) or create an account.
• Start exploring in full-screen 3D mode

Option 2: Steam Client

• Open Steam on your PC or download it from steampowered.com.
• Search for “Somnium Space”.
• Install the game and launch it like any other Steam title.
• Log in, connect your wallet, and go

VR Headset Setup (PCVR or Oculus Quest)

For the most immersive metaverse experience, you can use a VR headset. Somnium Space supports a variety of devices, including:

• PCVR headsets like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Valve Index
• Oculus Quest (Meta Quest), standalone or via sideloading

PCVR Setup:

• Make sure your VR headset is connected to a VR-ready PC.
• Download the Somnium Space desktop app from the official website or Steam.
• Launch it in VR mode.
• Put on your headset and dive right into the space in 360°

Oculus Quest (Standalone) Setup:

Somnium Space doesn’t appear in the Quest store yet, but you can still use it via sideloading:

• Install SideQuest on your computer.
• Download the Somnium VR client (APK) from somniumspace.com.
• Use SideQuest to install the APK on your headset.
• Launch the app from your headset and start exploring.

Wallet Setup (MetaMask + CUBE Purchases)

Somnium Space runs on blockchain tech, which means you’ll need a crypto wallet to fully participate (buy land, mint avatars, earn rewards, etc.).

Step 1: Install MetaMask

• Go to metamask.io and download the browser extension or mobile app.
• Create a new wallet and back up your seed phrase safely (this is very important!).
• Add funds by buying ETH or transferring from an exchange.

Step 2: Add Polygon Network (Optional but recommended)

• Since Somnium also supports Polygon (for lower fees), you might want to switch your MetaMask wallet to the Polygon network.
• You can do this manually or use tools like Chainlist.org for a one-click setup.

Step 3: Buy CUBE Tokens

• You can buy CUBE, Somnium’s native token, on exchanges like Uniswap, KuCoin, or others.
• Once you have CUBE, send it to your MetaMask wallet.

Step 4: Connect Wallet to Somnium

• Head to somniumspace.com.
• Click “Connect Wallet”.
• Now you’re ready to buy land, mint avatars, and make in-game purchases

Challenges & Risks in Somnium Space

While Somnium Space is a groundbreaking platform in the world of VR and blockchain, it’s not without its challenges. Like any emerging technology, it faces some hurdles that users and investors should be aware of.

Let’s break down the three main risks you should keep in mind when exploring this metaverse.

Onboarding Complexity & Hardware Barriers

Let’s be honest, getting started with Somnium Space isn’t always plug-and-play, especially if you’re not tech-savvy.

The Challenge:

• Full VR access requires a powerful gaming PC and a compatible VR headset (like Oculus Rift or HTC Vive).
• For Oculus Quest users, sideloading apps and setting up blockchain wallets can be tricky.
• Even without VR, setting up wallets like MetaMask, transferring crypto, and understanding how to buy land or avatars can feel overwhelming for newcomers

Why It Matters:

This complexity creates a barrier to entry, limiting adoption to more experienced users and leaving out casual players or everyday users who aren’t into crypto or VR yet.

In simple terms, if it takes 30 minutes just to figure out how to log in and buy something, many people might just give up.

Market Adoption & Network Effects

For a virtual world like Somnium Space to thrive, it needs more than just cool features; it needs lots of active users.

The Challenge:

• As of 2025, Somnium Space still has a relatively small user base compared to big players like Roblox, Fortnite, or Meta’s Horizon Worlds.
• Most of the current community consists of early adopters: tech enthusiasts, crypto investors, and VR lovers.
• Without a steady flow of new users, it’s hard to create momentum and vibrant social experiences.

Why It Matters:

Somnium’s value increases as more people use it; this is called a network effect. More users equal more events, content, creators, and economy. But with slow adoption, growth can stall or feel stagnant.

 In simple terms: A virtual city isn’t much fun if it feels empty. The more people who join, the better the experience for everyone.

Security & Economic Volatility

Because Somnium Space is built on blockchain and uses its own token (CUBE), it comes with all the risks you’d expect in crypto.

The Challenge:

• Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile; the value of your land, avatars, or CUBE tokens can rise or fall dramatically in a short time.
• If a major bug, hack, or rug-pull occurs (not specific to Somnium, but in the wider crypto ecosystem), users could lose assets or access.
• There’s also the risk of smart contract vulnerabilities, wallet hacks, or scams targeting new users.

Why It Matters:

The decentralized system gives you ownership,  but it also means you’re responsible for your own security. If you lose your seed phrase or send tokens to the wrong address, there’s usually no way to recover them.

In simple terms: You’re in control, but that also means you need to be extra careful

Conclusion 

Somnium Space isn’t just another virtual world; it’s a bold step into the future of how we live, work, play, and connect online. With its mix of virtual reality, blockchain ownership, and user-driven creativity, it gives you the power to actually own your digital experiences. 

Whether you want to build your dream home, open a virtual shop, host a live event, or just hang out in a futuristic cityscape, Somnium makes it possible.

Yes, there are challenges. The tech can feel complex at first, and the learning curve is real. But for those who scale through, the rewards can be huge: creativity, community, and even income.

FAQs