NPC

Definition

NPC stands for "Non-Player Character" - a term from video games referring to characters controlled by the computer rather than players. In slang, calling someone an NPC means they lack original thought, blindly follow trends, or act robotically without thinking for themselves.

In 2023, "NPC" also became associated with a TikTok Live streaming trend where creators act like video game NPCs, repeating phrases and making robotic movements when viewers send gifts.

Origin & History

The term originated in gaming, where NPCs are pre-programmed characters that repeat the same dialogue and behaviors. They exist to serve a function but have no real agency or personality.

Phase 1 (2018): The NPC meme emerged on 4chan and spread to Twitter/Reddit, used to describe people who seemed to follow mainstream opinions without critical thinking.

Phase 2 (2023): The NPC TikTok Live trend exploded. Creators like Pinkydoll (@pinkydollreal) went viral for acting like NPCs on livestreams, saying catchphrases like "Ice cream so good" and "Gang gang" in robotic voices when receiving gifts. Some NPC streamers earned thousands of dollars per stream.

The two meanings now coexist:

• Insult: Someone who can't think independently
• Content style: Intentionally acting robotic for entertainment

How to Use It

As an insult (original meaning):

"He just repeats whatever he sees on Twitter. Total NPC behavior."

"NPCs really out here buying whatever influencers promote."

Referring to NPC streaming:

"She makes bank doing NPC streams on TikTok Live."

"The NPC meta is wild. People are donating thousands."

Examples

"Imagine having no original opinions. NPC moment."

"My coworker is such an NPC, same script every day."

"That NPC streamer made $7,000 in one hour."

Related Terms

• Brainrot
• Sigma
• Aura