Update 2025-06-11 (PST) (AI summary of creator comment): The creator is seeking opinions on how to resolve characters like Mike. Mike's characteristics under consideration for the definition of 'appearing':

• Does not physically appear on screen.

• Has no dialogue.

• Is mentioned by another character (Tenna) as being active behind the scenes (e.g., controlling spotlights, minigames). The creator also mentioned that some Chapter 4 content might further complicate this specific case.