The Tomato

Photo: Dasser Kamran/Fulcrum
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Students and faculty will now be able to interact in this new virtual environment

The University of Ottawa has announced the launch of a new virtual campus, conveniently available as an expansion pack in the Sims 4 video game. 

Unrecognizable from the physical campus found in the heart of Ottawa, the new virtual campus appears to have world-class amenities and plenty of green space.

Effective immediately, all classes and exams will now be held in-game, with a U of O representative citing the ability to integrate Respondus and much-needed virtual interaction as the main reasons for making the investment. 

In a video address to the student body, vice-sean of academics Simon Sims touted the benefits of this new Virtual Campus.

“Thanks to wonderful technological advancements, visitors from all around the world can visit our esteemed campus,” said Sims. “Virtual services range from guided tours and info sessions to a bouncy castle.”

However, the vice-dean made no mention of how the faculty were being prepared for this upcoming expansion.

Students will receive an access code for the virtual campus via their U of O email account.

 The substantial cost associated with the project is expected to be reflected in the tuition fees for the upcoming semester. Students will also be expected to purchase the game themselves to access the virtual campus.