A 2022 proposal from NFT gaming consultant Mikhai Kossar raised a pointed question: could people in the Philippines be paid to act as non-player characters (NPCs) in video games? The idea was reported by Futurism on September 7, 2022. It was a proposal—not evidence that a human-controlled NPC system launched or became an established industry practice.
What did the proposal involve?
Futurism identified Kossar as an NFT gaming consultant and quoted him saying: “With the cheap labor of a developing country, you could use people in the Philippines as NPCs.” He envisioned people populating game worlds, carrying out routine activities, or acting as shopkeepers.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
NPC - Funny Minimalist Pixel Video Game Lover T-Shirt | $21.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Unpainted Resin NPC Minis for Tabletop RPG Game - 28mm Scale Fantasy Village Folk Set for Dungeon... | $11.70 | Buy on Amazon |
The framing drew attention to the economic vulnerability implicit in describing workers as “cheap labor.” The report did not establish a specific employer, pay rate, schedule, contract, or operating game for this concept. It should therefore be understood as a reported idea, not a documented job opportunity.
Why was the idea connected to play-to-earn games?
The proposal appeared against the backdrop of play-to-earn games such as Axie Infinity. Futurism reported that some players used the game to earn income by trading in-game currency, and that the game’s token values and economy later collapsed. The article described “thousands” of Filipino gamers earning cash, but did not identify an original statistical publisher for that wording; it is not a verified standalone statistic.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Awesome design - the perfect statement piece for anyone who wants to show their love for retro games and funny video game humor. With its retro design and funny expression, it is sure to turn heads and start conversations.
- Looking for unique and memorable gifts for women, kids or men? This eye-catching vintage design is the perfect choice! Great gifts for colleagues, friends and family.
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Futurism also described guilds recruiting players for Axie Infinity and Critterz and taking a share of their proceeds. It cited earlier reporting by Rest of World for background; the details here are claims reported by Futurism, not an independently established labor-market study.
What would make human-controlled NPC work fair—or exploitative?
Calling a role a game job does not settle whether it offers meaningful choice or fair compensation. The questions raised by the proposal and the guild arrangements are practical ones:
Rank #2
- Essential Village Life Set: Populate your tabletop rpg game with this versatile trio of commoners. Featuring a laborer, a woodcutter, and a gravedigger, these figures provide the perfect background depth for Dungeons and Dragons, Pathfinder, or any Fantasy town encounter.
- Premium Hobbyist Detail: These Tabletop Unpainted Miniatures are cast in high-resolution gray resin, showcasing realistic tools, clothing textures, and expressive faces. This minis figurine set is an ideal project for painters looking to expand their dnd miniatures collection with realistic NPCs.
- True 28mm Scale Utility: Sized to fit perfectly alongside your Human Miniatures Tabletop Gaming Miniatures, these townsfolk maintain consistent scaling on your battle map. They are a must-have RPG Accessory for any DM who values world-building and narrative immersion.
- Gift for Creative Masters: Looking for a practical rpg gift? This 3-piece set is a dream for Dungeon Masters and collectors. Durable and highly detailed, these models are compatible with any major miniature game, making them a flexible addition to any ttrpg toolkit.
- Authorized Designer: Cast n Play Authorization Mark:FigoMinis
- Control over work: Can workers choose their tasks and hours, or are they expected to remain available for long periods?
- Transparent compensation: Is pay set in advance and understandable, including any share retained by a guild or intermediary?
- Ability to leave: Can participants stop without losing money they have already earned or facing penalties they did not clearly agree to?
- Who bears financial risk: If token prices or a game economy fall, do workers lose expected income while intermediaries remain protected?
These are useful tests for any proposed digital-work arrangement. The 2022 report does not provide enough information to answer them for Kossar’s NPC concept, and it does not offer a full comparison of guild labor and human-controlled NPC work.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the report establishes—and what it does not
The report establishes that Kossar publicly floated the idea and that Futurism placed it in the context of play-to-earn gaming and guilds. It does not show that the proposed NPC system was implemented, that people were hired for it, or that it became a standard practice. Nor does the article’s unsourced “thousands” wording establish a precise count of Filipino Axie players.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
