In anticipation of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Michigan State University professor Yong Zhao and MSU Confucius Institute have created Zon, an MMO aimed at teaching Mandarin Chinese and introducing Chinese culture to players, according to university paper MSU Today.

The browser-based virtual world allows players to visit markets, read newspapers, watch television, chat and trade with other players, and find jobs, all in China and with the added twist of using tools to understand the language and culture. Players can access quests and learning materials, including live Chinese tutors, while advancing through different stages of status in China, such as “tourists,” “residents,” and ultimately citizens.

Though Zon is currently free and available as an open beta, a monthly subscription fee is being considered for the MMO. Zhao believes the summer Olympics will generate interest for Zon from children around the world hoping to learn more about China.

Said MSU College of Education dean Carole Ames: “MSU, through our Confucius Institute, has been a leader in the increasing interest for instruction in Chinese language and culture by providing innovative programs that are accessible to people. This game boldly goes to another frontier in learning that has the potential, technologically, to reach our largest audience yet.”