Character-driven storytelling in VR: the evolution of NPC interaction and player agency in immersive games

The revolutionary development of virtual reality technology is reshaping the narrative mode of games, and its main change is reflected in the transformation of non-player characters from stylized existences to context-aware narrative subjects. By analyzing three VR games at different technical stages, this study reveals how NPCs evolve from mechanically responsive script characters to context-aware narrative actors. We combined in-depth player interviews and behavioral data analysis to demonstrate that dynamic interactions significantly enhance story immersion and decision-making autonomy. An NPC system with real-time feedback not only extends the players emotional engagement, but also gives them substantial impact on the direction of the story.