I know that NPCs are not a new concept discussed around here, but I was thinking about some ideas in which they could be used:
Enemies: This one is self-explanatory. But they do not have to be advanced "aliens" (to avoid the "evil alien" trope), they could just be hostile wildlife or machines. Good for the PVE aspect.
Pets: Again, self-explanatory. Common aspect of MMOs. I believe that this was already promised anyway.
Allies: Recruit an NPC ally to assist you
Or have npc's like elements, that we can place around our builds so it doesnt look empty.
Have people sitting at the desk or have a linear path that they walk.
That way its possible to fill a city or a space station so it looks more realistic.
Even if the npc's are static, maybe they can state a simple text like a screen by interacting (F). So a helpdesk-lady-element can actually have a purpose instead of hanging screens all over the place.
Also, filling up your