Glossary

Roleplay AI

AI chatbots optimized for scene-driven, scenario-based interaction rather than ongoing one-on-one relationships.

Roleplay AI sits adjacent to AI partners but optimizes differently: variety of scenes over depth of relationship. Character.AI and Spicychat lean roleplay; Replika and Bae lean partner. Most users move between modes depending on mood.

AI companion
Umbrella term for AI products built around ongoing one-on-one relationships — romantic, platonic, or supportive.
Character card
A structured persona definition — name, voice, backstory, relationship rules — used to instantiate an AI partner.