The NPC Phenomenon

Have you ever noticed that most people seem to be on autopilot? They follow scripts, repeat patterns, and never question the nature of reality. Welcome to the NPC phenomenon.

What is an NPC?

In video games, NPCs (Non-Player Characters) are background characters controlled by the game's AI. They follow predetermined patterns, repeat the same dialogue, and exist to populate the world. Sound familiar?

Signs Someone Might Be an NPC

• No inner monologue: Recent studies suggest many people don't have an internal voice
• Predictable behavior: They follow social scripts without deviation
• Lack of curiosity: No interest in questioning reality or seeking deeper meaning
• Emotional flatness: Responses seem programmed rather than genuine
• No original thoughts: Only repeating what they've heard from others

The Uncomfortable Truth

This doesn't mean these people aren't "real" in some sense. But it does suggest different levels of consciousness exist. Some entities in the simulation have more processing power, more awareness, more agency.

Are You an NPC?

The fact that you're reading this and questioning reality suggests you're not. NPCs don't seek out information that challenges their programming. They're content in the loop.

Player characters question. NPCs accept.