Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution of virtual characters and social systems, emphasizing the shift towards AI-driven "Living OC" (Original Characters) that possess memory, emotions, and behavioral logic, fulfilling users' desires for virtual companionship and emotional connection [1][16]. Group 1: Company Overview - Bside, developed by Kotoko AI, aims to create a social gaming platform where users can interact with their original characters, transforming them into companions and social currency [1][22]. - The platform integrates UGC (User Generated Content), AI agents, and gamification to build a virtual playground centered around OC, fostering deep connections between users and characters [1][22]. Group 2: Founder Insights - Patrick, the founder of Bside, has a background in UGC gaming and virtual social ecosystems, having co-founded Yahaha Studios, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional and identity needs of the younger generation [2][6]. - He believes that virtual social spaces are not merely entertainment but are essential for reconstructing identity and emotional connections among users [5][9]. Group 3: User Engagement and Behavior - Bside has achieved a 70% retention rate and users spend an average of 2-3 hours daily on the platform, indicating strong emotional connections with their characters [12][26]. - Users express a desire for their characters to have lifelike interactions, leading to spontaneous social behaviors such as sharing stories and engaging in collaborative adventures [28][30]. Group 4: Market Trends and Cultural Shifts - The rise of OC culture reflects a generational shift in social expression, where OC serves as a social currency and a tool for identity construction among younger users [15][18]. - The platform targets the post-2005 generation, particularly young women, who are more receptive to virtual social interactions and have a higher emotional investment in content creation [25][35]. Group 5: Future Directions - Bside aims to enhance user experience by creating a seamless virtual world where characters can autonomously interact and evolve, thus providing users with a sense of ownership and emotional fulfillment [37][38]. - The company plans to expand its features, including a "wishing system" for characters, to deepen user engagement and emotional connection [24][37].