Substrata Launches Faster Portal System for Multi-World Navigation

Substrata has completed a major optimization of its animation system, achieving impressive compression results: - **Rebuilt built-in animations** with new keyframe compression - **File sizes reduced by 96%** - from 20 MB down to just 0.8 MB - **25x smaller** animation files overall This breakthrough means the metaverse platform can now add new animations without significantly impacting download sizes, improving the user experience for those exploring and creating in the virtual world.

A blog post explores the concept of embedding documentation directly into games and virtual environments, rather than keeping it separate. The approach treats documentation like gyms, zoos, or museums - spaces users can explore and learn from naturally. This idea aligns with insights from Pixels founder Luke Barwikowski, who notes that **virtual spaces need daily engagement through shared goals**. Gaming provides natural retention because it gives users something to do consistently. Meanwhile, technical improvements continue with feedback from Arseny Kapoulkine ([@zeuxcg](https://github.com/zeux/meshoptimizer/discussions/874#discussioncomment-12900922)), one of the world's leading coders, sharing optimization suggestions. The concept suggests documentation could become an explorable part of the environment itself - potentially making learning more intuitive and engaging for users in virtual worlds.

Substrata, a multi-user metaverse platform, is preparing to roll out new features including: - **New dance animations** for user avatars - **Global time of day settings** to enhance the virtual environment experience The platform allows users to chat, explore user-created content, and purchase land parcels that can be minted as Ethereum NFTs. Users can create free accounts and add objects to the shared virtual world. *Note: Substrata remains in early development stages.*

**Sales Update** The River Mouth land parcel sale is approaching completion with only **20 parcels remaining** out of the original 76 available. **Key Details:** - Current sales pace: approximately 1 parcel per day - 56 parcels have been sold to date - Auctions continue at [substrata.info/parcel_auction_list](https://substrata.info/parcel_auction_list) The steady sales rate suggests the remaining inventory could be sold within the next few weeks at the current pace.

**River Mouth district launches** with waterfront land parcels now available for auction. **Key auction details:** - 48-hour downward auctions starting at 1000 EUR - Reserve price set at 50 EUR minimum - Parcels extend into water for dock construction - Multiple weeks of ongoing auctions The **unique waterfront parcels** allow builders to construct docks directly in the water, perfect for boats and maritime builds. Developers hope to see **seaside town aesthetics** emerge, including boathouses and coastal architecture that take advantage of the water access. [View current auctions](https://substrata.info/parcel_auction_list) *Start building your waterfront dream in the new River Mouth district.*