Agent-based models (ABMs) and video games, including those taking advantage of virtual reality (VR), have

undergone a remarkable parallel evolution, achieving impressive levels of complexity and sophistication. This

paper argues that while ABMs prioritize scientific analysis and understanding and VR aims for immersive

entertainment, they both simulate artificial worlds and can benefit from closer integration. Coupling both

approaches indeed opens interesting possibilities for research and development in various fields, and in

particular education, at the heart of the SIMPLE project, an EU-funded project on the development of digital

tools for awareness raising on environmental issues. However, existing tools often present limitations,

including technical complexity, limited functionalities, and lack of interoperability. To address these

challenges, we introduce a novel framework for linking GAMA, a popular ABM platform, with Unity, a

widely used game engine. This framework enables seamless data exchange, real-time visualization, and user

interaction within VR environments, allowing researchers to leverage the strengths of both ABMs and VR for

more impactful and engaging simulations. We demonstrate the capabilities of our framework through two

prototypes built to highlight its potential in representing and interacting with complex socio-environmental

system models. We conclude by emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between the ABM

and VR communities to develop robust, user-friendly tools, paving the way for a new era of collaborative

research and immersive experiences in simulations.