# Metaverse Architectures: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Definitions and Frameworks
## 4 Discussion
### The Definition of Metaverse  
The definitional diversity shown in the data indicates that the metaverse is a concept in active evolution, shaped by technical advancements and societal creativity. The findings predominantly highlight immersion, avatar embodiment, and communal interaction; however, a more profound analysis uncovers tensions between opposing conceptual frameworks, particularly concerning whether the metaverse constitutes an extension of existing  
\begin{table}
\begin{tabular}{p{142.3 pt} p{142.3 pt} p{142.3 pt}} \hline \hline
**Study** & **Layer of Architecture** & **Technology** \\ \hline [PERSON] et al. [66] & Data Input Layer, Enabling Layer, Industrial Application Layer & Industrial \\ \hline [PERSON] et al. [103] & Physical Layer, Perception and Communication Layer, Digital Twins and Digital Native Model Layer, Industrial Data and AI Layer, Metaverse Engines Layer, Smart Manufacturing Layer, Human–Metaverse Interaction Layer, Smart Manufacturing Application Layer & Industrial \\ \hline [PERSON] et al. [57] & The Doctor/Physician Environment, The Metaverse/Virtual Environment, the Patient Environment & Healthcare \\ \hline [PERSON] et.al [104] & Application Layer, Metaverse Engine, Virtual Layer, Operational Technology Layer, Physical Layer & Manufacturing \\ \hline [PERSON] et al. [102] & Ecosystem, Technology, Facility & Mobility \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table}
Table 11: Domain-based metaverse architecture.  
digital systems or a completely separate reality paradigm. This disparity signifies an unresolved debate: some definitions regard the metaverse as the subsequent evolution of the internet [68; 78], whilst others view it as a sociotechnical disruption that transforms the interplay between physical and digital realities [65; 75].  
Definitions of the metaverse often prioritise user experience, particularly spatial computing and social interaction via avatars. However, this emphasis sometimes neglects structural and governance considerations. For instance, few definitions explicitly address decentralisation, digital asset ownership, platform interoperability, or algorithmic governance, all of which are essential for the effective deployment of metaverse platforms. This omission reduces the utility of existing definitions for architectural design, regulatory frameworks, and ethical governance.  
Given these gaps, this study proposes a definition that harmonises theoretical orientations with the practical imperatives of contemporary systems. Drawing upon eight core themes identified through thematic analysis (as outlined in Table 2), the metaverse is reconceptualised as a multifaceted domain that transcends a purely digital interface. This integrated perspective encompasses social systems, technological infrastructures, and immersive spatial experiences.  
A proposed metaverse definition can be formulated by considering the results.  
\"The metaverse is a three-dimensional virtual environment that encompasses a vast universe of interconnected digital realms, enabled by advanced technologies, that exist parallel to the physical world, where users are represented by digital representatives, providing an immersive social, economic and interactive experience that transcends traditional internet applications by blurring the boundaries between real and virtual worlds.\"  
This formulation swiftly addresses the deficiencies of prior definitions by explicitly incorporating socio-economic, experiential, and technological dimensions. It presents the metaverse as a technologically enabled ecosystem that facilitates a variety of interactions and value exchanges, rather than only as a visual or spatial environment. The definition is neutral concerning platform governance and ownership structures, rendering it applicable to both centralised and federated systems. Furthermore, it conforms to contemporary frameworks that emphasise scalability, modularity, and cross-platform compatibility as fundamental design concepts.