I think you raised a very important point here, and one that I have been pondering myself over the last couple of months. I've enjoyed playing online, doing tasks for people that I have never met in person, even building some sorts of relationships over the internet or phone. But I have to admit, as much fun as it was (and still is) I know I won't be happy until I find someone to explore in real life for most of the reasons that you stated yourself. There's always something missing...

Then again, some of the previous posters have fulfilling relationships outside of this medium and are merely looking to add to that by finding an online partner to live out certain fantasies or explore new territory. And that makes perfect sense to me, they have both...someone to touch, smell, taste and fulfill their needs, and someone to stimulate their mind and add another dimension, whatever that may be. You see, most of the posters here probably wouldn't settle for an ALL online relationship if there was no one there to come back to in r/l.

Others might just be looking for the substitute you're talking about, or they might have withdrawn into a fantasy world...

How about me? Well, I'm a single in r/l and I wish I had someone here with me, but I haven't found that special person as of yet and refuse to settle for less than I want and deserve. (yeah, guess I'm picky ) So, I definitely fall into the "substitute category". And it's fine. It's a hell of a lot better than nothing...a very good substitute for the time being. I have a very creative fantasy and fill the gaps that mere virtual contact leaves.

The next question that comes up to me is what happens with my online life when I finally find a r/l partner and take my playing out of this environment and into reality? Will I give up on the fun and friends I've met here? Hell, NO! But I think my motivation and focus would change.

I really love your passionate plea for using all senses to paint the whole picture, EDMUNDOSLOTH...or whoever might be smiling through a small window in the facade.

Silke