Chinese scenic spots and theme parks are reimagining fan engagement by hiring celebrities to act as Non-Player Characters (NPCs). This innovative approach aims to boost local tourism; actors like Zheng Guolin and Ma Jingtao don historical costumes to interact with visitors in immersive environments, creating a unique experience that generates social media buzz.
As young travelers increasingly seek meaningful experiences, this trend aligns with their desire to actively participate in stories rather than merely observe them. However, experts question the long-term viability of this strategy, wondering if it can evolve beyond its initial novelty. For now, these locations resemble live-action RPGs, blending entertainment with tourism in an exciting way.