virtual characters
虚拟角色：存在于数字或混合现实环境中的、由计算机生成的角色形象，常用于游戏、AR/VR 体验或交互应用中，通过叙事或互动来引导用户参与。
English Definition
"Computer-generated personas or avatars that inhabit a digital or mixed-reality environment, often used in games, AR/VR experiences, or interactive applications to engage users through narrative or interaction."
用法说明 · 针对中文母语者
在游戏设计与 AR/VR 设计语境中常见，常与 avatar（化身）混用，但 avatar 多指玩家自我投射的替身，virtual characters 更偏向系统设计者构建的 NPC 性质角色。
真实用例 · 3 条
"We developed Mileys – a novel in-car game that integrates location-based information, augmented reality and virtual characters."
"The game centers around virtual characters called Mileys, which are conceptualized at certain geographic locations."
"Mileys is a geo-located collecting game that integrates location-based information, augmented reality, and virtual characters."