#VTuber

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) is embracing the digital age with a bold new initiative: the launch of its first-ever VTuber mascot, Nozomi Ruru. Sporting an eye-catching design that includes the traditional Filipino broom "Walis Tambo," Nozomi Ruru’s look blends modern VTuber aesthetics with iconic cultural elements. Developed through a creative collaboration between Juchan of Isegai Workshop, who handled her Live2D rigging, and Maru Vanesco, the designer behind her official VTuber logo, Nozomi Ruru is set to offer engaging and interactive content. VTubers have surged in popularity worldwide, especially in Japan, and UST’s decision to launch Nozomi Ruru not only modernizes its image but also promotes cultural exchange in a fun and innovative way. Four talents from Japanese VTuber agency hololive will be featured in the high fantasy role-playing game (RPG) Valkyrie Connect, a free to play game that combines Norse mythology with Japanese aesthetic. A VTuber or virtual YouTuber refers to an online talent using a 2D or 3D avatar as alter ego in creating content. It was believed that Japanese VTuber Kizuna AI was the one who popularized the term, calling herself as one in her introduction video on December 1, 2016. As motion capture rig and streaming technology became more affordable and easier to manage, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in the VTuber industry. Read more in our articles including "UST Unveils Nozomi Ruru: Its First VTuber Icon!" and "Hololive collabs with high fantasy RPG Valkyrie Connect".