vMTV is an online world similar to SecondLife (Secondlife.com) There(There.com) They are all backed my real money each have their own economy where you can buy and resell items. vMTV is still in beta testing so features and upgrades are still happening often but the other communities are well established. There and vMTV both use the same platform and are very similar because they were both created by Makena Technologies who created There.
The concept of communication and interacting in vMTV is pretty simple. You normally move around with your keyboard arrow keys and typing to fellow members. You also have ways to “Teleport” to other areas by utilizing the “Places” menu bar and “Go To Favorites” If you are a paying vMTV member you can pay the $5.95 a month and voice chat to fellow paying members or staff members if you so desire.
For more information on being a paid member check this page out here.
Sorry for not responding but I can’t help you. I am no ways associated with MTV. Your family member was likely a member of the former virtual world that has now changed to a 2d based world.