<p>Platform mechanics including the generation and consumption of energy-based virtual currency are described. A method of generating energy-based virtual currency includes receiving a signal generated by a sensor carried by a user. The method also includes analyzing the signal to validate that an activity was performed by the user in the real world or that a state associated with the user occurred in the real world. The method also includes awarding energy-based virtual currency to the user in response to validating that the activity was performed by the user or that the state associated with the user occurred in the real world. A method of redeeming energy-based virtual currency includes receiving energy-based virtual currency that can be redeemed for value in a virtual world or in the real world. The method also includes redeeming at least some of the energy-based virtual currency for value in the real world.</p>