From the CARLA August newsletter (http://carla.umn.edu)

Free online game teaches students about Chinese language and culture
http://enterzon.com

A new online role-playing game, designed by a U.S. professor who is a
top researcher in Chinese education, aims to help students and adults
learn more about the culture and language of China. Called Zon, the
game requires free registration but is entirely browser-based, so
users can play from home or school.

Interacting in the Zon environment, students are exposed to Chinese
language and cultural knowledge; everything they do in the game is
another chance to learn new words, phrases, and cultural information
"Games are supposed to be fun and education," Sichuan native Yong
Zhao, now a Michigan State University distinguished professor of
educational psychology and technology and the creator of Zon, told the
Detroit Free Press. "This game offers a vicarious, virtual experience
of China."