Tumor immunotherapy,distinguished by its broad applicability,positive outcomes,and minimal side effects,has garnered significant attention recently.However,some tumors exhibit immune escape mechanisms,referred to as"cold"tumors,which curtail the efficacy of immunotherapy.Oncolytic viruses,genetically modified viruses with potent anti-tumor effects,have emerged surprisingly and prominently due to their remarkable immune-activating properties,capable of transforming"cold"tumors into"hot"ones.Current research underscores that oncolytic viruses can enhance tissue immunogenicity by directly eliminating tumor cells,upregulating immune checkpoints on the tumor cell surface,and activating immunity through innate viral properties.Furthermore,through genetic engineering technology,these viruses prompt tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte recruitment,facilitate dendritic cells maturation,and induce T cell activation.The consensus is that oncolytic viruses hold immense potential as facilitators of tumor immunotherapy,amplifying the anti-tumor effects of immunotherapies.This review provides an overview of the current immune activation mechanisms of oncolytic viruses,highlighting their robust anti-tumor effects in clinical applications.