Video Game Dictionary - What are Non-Playable Characters (NPCs)?

NPCs

IPA: nɒn-ˈpleɪəbᵊl ˈkærəktəz

Definition

NPC is an initialism for the term “Non-Playable Character”, which, as the name suggests, describes characters you do not have control over. The term originated in the original 1974 rulebooks for Dungeons and Dragons where “non-playable characters” were adventurers specifically hired to aid the player party. The term later appeared in RPG games in the 1980s, like Ultima, Wizardry, and Bard‘s Tale.

As game development started advancing, NPCs appeared more in the 90s in such games as Final Fantasy and The Legend of Zelda. Moving into the 2000s, 10s, and 20s, NPCs are more dynamic with deeper back stories, personalities, and dialogue. This adds to player immersion when exploring environments and interacting with villagers, sidekicks, or enemies. You can now build rapport with NPCs and fight against them or alongside them, with sophisticated mechanics making them appear more convincingly human.

The term NPCs has also evolved beyond gaming and has been used in internet culture and memes. Original NPCs were seen as devoid of character and seemed to follow simplistic automated routines blindly. The term was used in a satirical or insulting context to indicate that someone has no real personality.

NPCs have become a staple in games over the years, leading to some players growing a strong emotional attachment to these characters. Examples include Dogmeat from the Fallout series, Tom Nook from Animal Crossing, The Merchant from Resident Evil 4, and many more. Whether they help the story along or assist in world-building and player immersion, NPCs are essential to the gaming experience.

Example Usage

"That NPC has the best lines—he always makes me laugh when I walk past him."

"I love how the NPCs in this game react differently depending on your reputation.