Hi there
This isn't for everyone but its an idea, maybe add them or just another mode or game. The game is Fantastic but for some players who like more strategy than being in the thick off it, maybe be for example add if or when a player starts a town village etc. And there is sufficient housing NPC's could settle in breed and etc. They could be used by the town/village leader or leaders to gather resources be soldiers shop keepers black smiths bakers farmers gatherer's and more. just like in LIF Forest Village so the player or player's are not depending on numbers being made by other players on the game. basically they can have an empire made up of a few player and NPC's.
That's my idea thanks for reading.
Regards