Core Viewpoint - The article explores the emotional connections individuals form with fictional characters, particularly in the context of anime and gaming, highlighting how these relationships provide emotional support and fulfillment in the absence of real-life connections [1][4][17]. Group 1: Emotional Support from Fictional Characters - Many individuals find companionship in fictional characters, often customizing interactions and narratives around them to enhance their emotional experiences [3][4]. - The phenomenon of "dream girls" or "dream boys" reflects a growing trend where people invest emotionally in characters from anime or games, seeking solace and understanding that they may not find in real relationships [9][10]. - Characters like 越前龙雅 from "The Prince of Tennis" serve as significant emotional anchors for individuals, helping them navigate personal challenges and providing a sense of stability [12][15]. Group 2: Personal Stories of Connection - Individuals like 孟风虹, an ICU nurse, illustrate how fictional characters can offer emotional resilience during stressful times, allowing them to cope with the pressures of their professions [6][16]. - The narrative of 沈玉 reveals how her emotional investment in the character 五条悟 from "Jujutsu Kaisen" led her to reassess her real-life relationships, prioritizing her feelings for the fictional character over her boyfriend [18][20]. - Similarly, 苏苏's reliance on the character 傅闲 from a game highlights how fictional relationships can provide a sense of security and fulfillment that real-life relationships may lack [25][27]. Group 3: The Role of Virtual Interactions - Characters in games, such as 暖暖 from "Shining Nikki," offer a consistent source of interaction and emotional support, filling the void left by real-life friendships [28][35]. - The article emphasizes that virtual characters can provide a stable emotional anchor, contrasting with the unpredictability of real-life relationships [36][37]. - The experiences shared by individuals underscore the idea that virtual relationships can be perceived as safer and more reliable than their real-world counterparts, allowing for a deeper emotional connection without the fear of abandonment [34][37].