In blockchain gaming, both characters and NPCs (non-player characters) can exist as blockchain assets. While they may appear similar at first glance, there are important distinctions in how they function and who controls them.

Blockchain Characters

A blockchain character is a player-owned in-game character. Some or all of the character’s data—such as level, attributes, or variables affecting in-game stats—can be stored on the blockchain. This ensures ownership is secured and verifiable, and it allows the character to carry value and persistence across gaming environments.

Blockchain NPCs

A blockchain NPC (non-player character) is an in-game character that exists on the blockchain. Unlike traditional NPCs, which are controlled exclusively by game developers, blockchain NPCs can either be owned by players or even own themselves.

There are two main types:

Player-Owned NPCs

These are NPCs held directly in a player’s blockchain wallet. Examples include mounts, companions, mercenaries, or other entities that a player truly owns.

Autonomous NPCs

This is a more experimental concept. Autonomous NPCs have their own blockchain wallet and essentially own themselves. They can earn Enjin Coin (ENJ) and use it to interact with the ecosystem—such as trading, hiring other players or NPCs, or upgrading their own capabilities.

Example scenario: Imagine a blacksmith NPC that runs its own shop. It can sell items to players, earn ENJ from those sales, and use that ENJ to purchase raw materials or hire other NPCs. Over time, it could upgrade its own abilities or expand its shop—all without direct player control.

A multiverse NPC is a subcategory of autonomous NPCs, designed to exist and function across multiple games or virtual worlds.