Player character facts for kids
A player character (PC) is a made-up character in a role-playing game or video game. The player controls this character's actions. This is different from characters whose actions are decided by the game's rules.
Characters not controlled by a player are called non-player characters (NPCs). In video games, the game usually controls NPCs. In tabletop role-playing games, a gamemaster follows rules to control them. The player character acts like a different body for the player in the game's story.
Most video games have one player character for each person playing. Some games let a player choose from a group of characters. The player can control one character at a time. If there are many characters to choose from, they often have different abilities. This makes the game play differently with each choice.
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Understanding Player Characters
What Are Avatars?
Sometimes, a player character looks like a real person. This happens in sports games, where characters use names and looks of real athletes. Historical people or leaders can also appear as characters. You might see them in strategy games like Civilization.
These characters are often called avatars. An avatar's name or look usually does not change the game much. Avatars are also common in games that pretend to be casino games.
Characters in Role-Playing Games
In role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons or Final Fantasy, players usually create or pick a character. This character might be very different from the player. The character often belongs to a special race or class. Examples include an elf, a berserker, or a cleric. Each has their own strengths and weaknesses.
Characters have skills like magic or fighting ability. These skills are shown as numbers. Players can improve these skills as they play. They gain experience points by completing quests or fighting enemies.
Characters with No Story
In many video games, the player character is like a "blank slate." This means they do not have a set personality or backstory. Characters like Crono, Link, and Chell are good examples. These characters often do not speak in the game.
In strategy games, the player character is often not seen. They might be called "Commander" or "General." This lets the player imagine themselves in that role.
Characters in Fighting Games
Fighting games usually have many player characters to choose from. Most characters share some basic moves. But each character also has special moves only they can use. Having many different characters makes fighting games more wikt:variety:varied and challenging.
Secret Characters to Unlock
A secret or unlockable character is a playable character in a video game. You can usually play as them after finishing the game. Sometimes, you need to complete certain tasks. In some games, characters who start as non-player characters, like bosses or enemies, become playable. This happens after you beat them or do other specific things.
Related pages
Images for kids
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The player-controlled character of Madeline (left) talks to a non-player character outside a building in the game Celeste.
See also
In Spanish: Personaje jugador para niños
