In the realm of virtual gaming, high GC blurs the distinction between reality and the virtual environment, enabling players to experience a profound sense of presence through role immersion. This immersion can facilitate the development of PSRS, as players gain insights into characters’ motivations and emotional responses. Consequently, this understanding may influence adjustments in real-world intentions, such as shifting from virtual social motivations to actual interpersonal interactions (Martinez et al., 2022). This transfer mechanism underscores the role of GC in linking the virtual and the real, thereby driving changes in behavioral intentions through immersive processing (Mula-Márquez et al., 2024). Recent research further corroborates that GC enhances Parasocial Involvement in interactive settings, positively impacting behavioral transfer by cultivating enduring effects on one-sided connections through immersion (Chang et al., 2024). An alternative perspective posits that GC stimulates intrinsic motivations within games, extending the virtual experience into the real world and thereby strengthening intention formation (Martinez et al., 2022). In light of these findings, we propose the following hypotheses:

GC, a fundamental aspect of embodiment identification, signifies players’ immersive engagement and focused attention within the virtual environment. This mechanism fosters a perception of virtual characters as social entities akin to friends through repeated interactions and narrative immersion, thereby establishing perceived social connections (Breien and Wasson, 2021). Specifically, elevated levels of GC may diminish the boundary between reality and virtuality, enhancing character similarity and resonance, which in turn reinforces IF. This hypothesis is supported by research on narrative-driven games, which indicates that immersive experiences enhance perceptions of relationships. For instance, in role-playing games, players cultivate enduring social bonds through profound involvement (İskender, 2023). Therefore, we propose the following hypothesis:

This study posits that GC positively correlates with players’ FD. The primary mechanism underlying this relationship is that GC fosters a profound sense of presence (Blackman, 2024). This presence blurs the distinction between reality and the virtual environment, allowing players to immerse themselves deeply in their characters (van Brakel et al., 2023). Such a strong experience of presence in the virtual realm provides a vital psychological foundation for transferring game-based experiences into real-world decisions. This transfer may alter behavioral intentions, as players derive decision-making motivations from virtual simulations (Jans et al., 2023). Ultimately, the psychological fusion and transfer process driven by GC can effectively mediate and enhance players’ FD (Martinez et al., 2022). Therefore, we propose the following hypothesis:

By fostering players’ perceived similarity and emotional support toward virtual characters, the intensity and depth of one-way connections are significantly enhanced. This mechanism is theoretically grounded in the media extension of attachment theory. Here, IF denotes players’ perception of the character as a “Friend,” leading to a reciprocal illusion and emotional attachment (Milman and Mills, 2023). In the gaming context, elevated levels of IF blur the boundaries between virtual and authentic experiences. Players engage in PC, which involves understanding the character’s motivations, and in PE, which encompasses empathy and support, through role immersion. This engagement positively influences PSRS and establishes a pathway from virtual involvement to real-world decision-making (Mula-Márquez et al., 2024). This mechanism underscores IF as a critical bridge that enhances the durability of PSRS, particularly in narrative-driven games, thereby increasing player loyalty and imitation of player behavior (Zhou, 2021). Recent studies further confirm that IF is a positive predictor of PE in virtual environments, helping address real-world social gaps and strengthen relationships (Hoffner and Bond, 2022). Therefore, we propose the following hypotheses:

IF refers to the process by which players perceive virtual characters as intimate partners, establishing one-sided emotional connections characterized by trust and support. This process fulfills social needs and encourages translating intentions into real-world actions (Rain and Mar, 2021). Within the context of simulation games, high levels of IF foster deep role interactions, creating a framework defined by PE. This framework effectively diminishes the perceived divide between the virtual and real worlds (Chang et al., 2024). Martinez et al. (2022) demonstrated that in life simulation games, such as Animal Crossing, interactions centered on shared goals enhance emotional bonds among players, thereby positively impacting real-world family relationships. When players cultivate strong IF with virtual caregiving characters, they may bridge real-world social gaps through relationship simulation. This process can lead to more positive expectations and intrinsic needs regarding real-world parent–child relationships (Martinez et al., 2022). Consequently, IF may foster stronger PE in virtual environments, which, according to theoretical perspectives on emotional transfer, could be associated with more positive affective orientations toward parenthood. Based on this reasoning, we propose the following hypothesis:

PE, including empathy and perceived support derived from interactions with game characters, is positively associated with FD, which we conceptualize as an affective orientation toward parenthood. These emotions positively enhance FD by simulating relationships. This emotional pathway encompasses both emotional fulfillment and motivational transfer (Brehm and Schneider, 2019), which may increase the attractiveness of real-world childbearing in virtual parenting contexts. Existing models underscore the importance of emotional factors in shaping fertility intentions (Bachrach and Morgan, 2013). Consequently, we propose the following hypotheses:

In narrative-driven games, players’ deep immersion, referred to as GC, initially enhances their IF with virtual characters (Milman and Mills, 2023). This IF, defined by interdependence and support, acts as a crucial link between virtual engagement and more profound social psychological processes (Breien and Wasson, 2021). Furthermore, high-quality IF within games is a significant predictor of players’ social capital and sense of belonging (Choi et al., 2025). Similarly, cooperative games improve the quality of friendships through positive interactions (Pham et al., 2023). Collectively, these findings support a coherent argument: GC may affect players’ PSRS by fostering IF with virtual characters. Therefore, we propose the following hypotheses:

Utilizing the framework of embodiment identification, character attachment, and PSRS, we investigate the mediating role of PSR dimensions—specifically social cognition and social emotions—in the relationship between GC and FD. GC serves as a precursor that enhances real-world intentions through the mediating mechanisms of PC, which involves intent modeling, and PE, characterized by empathy support (del Valle-Canencia et al., 2022). Players’ focused interactions and self-identification within games facilitate the establishment of positive virtual relationships, which in turn reshape cognition and influence real-world beliefs (Kackar, 2024). This pathway is particularly pronounced in educational simulation games, where cognitive processing via virtual character relationships significantly enhances behavioral intentions (Tukachinsky et al., 2020). Furthermore, this mediation encompasses mechanisms of emotional fulfillment, as players engage in virtual relationships that evoke emotional connections (Dirin and Laine, 2023), such as those experienced through virtual parenting. Consequently, we propose the following hypotheses:

IF may mediate the relationship between GC and FD. This mediation occurs primarily by enhancing players’ perceived reciprocity and emotional closeness toward virtual characters. Consequently, this process facilitates the transfer of immersive gaming experiences into real-world behavioral intentions. This theoretical framework is grounded in the application of attachment theory to digital media. High levels of GC diminish the sense of virtual separation. Through IF, players cultivate a PE framework, which mediates the transition to FD. This reflects the continuity from virtual relationships to real-world decision-making (Milman and Mills, 2023). This mechanism positions IF as a catalyst that reinforces PSRS stability, particularly in simulation games. It strengthens players’ imitation of family roles and internalizes their motivations. Recent research has demonstrated that IF mediates the relationship between GC and PE on virtual platforms. This mediation fills real-world social gaps through relationship simulation and enhances behavioral motivations, such as fertility intentions (Yu et al., 2023). Based on this evidence, we propose the following hypothesis:

We investigate the mediating role of dimensions of PSRS, specifically social cognition and social emotions, in the relationship between IF and FD. Through IF, players simulate virtual relationship dynamics, which in turn reshape their real-world cognition (Milman and Mills, 2023). By understanding and empathizing with the experiences of virtual characters—such as parenting motivations, challenges, and joys (Liu, 2024)—players can construct or modify their cognitive schemas, attitudes, and knowledge regarding “Parenthood” (Cockerill et al., 2024). This process, grounded in cognitive commitment, allows players to achieve relationship satisfaction and emotional support through attachment and emotional resonance with virtual characters (Feng, 2024). Such positive emotional experiences may subsequently relate to the concept of “Parenting,” thereby enhancing the emotional desire for childbearing and fostering caregiving behaviors in real life (Zhang et al., 2024). This, in turn, influences real-world behavioral decisions and ultimately affects FD (Zhou, 2021). Therefore, we propose the following hypotheses:

These 16 hypotheses collectively delineate a clear trajectory: GC enhances players’ ability to form high-quality relationships with virtual characters, specifically through IF and PSRS. The positive experiences derived from these virtual interactions may subsequently affect players’ macro-level social intentions in the real world, such as FD. Furthermore, the seven mediation hypotheses provide a process-oriented analysis of the previously mentioned direct relationships. Together, these findings support a central premise: GC does not directly alter FD; rather, it correlates with this outcome by fostering specific, high-quality social and emotional connections, namely IF and PSRS, within the gaming environment.

This study integrates Avatar Identification Theory and Parasocial Relationship Theory to propose a preliminary mediation model linking engagement with simulation games to FD through virtual emotional and cognitive pathways. Avatar Identification Theory asserts that deep immersion, characterized by GC, allows players to assimilate their self-concept into virtual characters (Yu et al., 2023). This process facilitates a transition from merely controlling the character to “Becoming” the character, serving as the foundation for establishing a profound connection (Martinez et al., 2022). Expanding on this notion, the IF sub-dimension of Role Attachment Theory delineates this connection, wherein players cultivate a horizontal emotional bond with the character that encompasses trust and support, similar to real-life friendships (Rain and Mar, 2021). Furthermore, PSRS Theory elaborates on this identification by structuring it into sustained, one-sided cognitive and emotional investments. PC pertains to the comprehension of the character’s motivations (Cockerill et al., 2024), while PE encompasses empathy and affection. Both aspects have been demonstrated to potentially influence real-world attitudes and behaviors (Wu et al., 2025).

This theoretical framework simultaneously guides and delineates the core model path of this study (See Figure 1). The underlying logic posits that various theories elucidate critical stages in the ongoing transition from virtual immersion to real-world impact. GC, derived from Avatar Identification Theory, elucidates how profound immersion in the game initiates the entire psychological process (Yu et al., 2023). IF, based on Role Attachment Theory, characterizes the emotional bond established between the player and the character (Rain and Mar, 2021). Additionally, PSRS elucidates how this virtual bond affects real-world attitudes and behaviors through cognitive and emotional mechanisms (Wu et al., 2025).

The study proposes the following model: GC positively correlates with IF with virtual characters. This IF subsequently promotes PC and PE toward the character. Ultimately, these two dimensions of PSRS may affect the player’s real-world FD. The model suggests that virtual simulation, serving as a platform for psychological behavioral experiments, may subtly reshape an individual’s cognitive and emotional perspectives on family roles and parenting behaviors. This occurs through the pathway “GC →IF → PSRS → FD” in a low-fertility society.

This study relies on cross-sectional data, which permits only the examination of the correlational structure among variables and does not facilitate the establishment of a definitive causal chain. Consequently, any causal inferences drawn from these conclusions require further validation through alternative research designs.

Existing research indicates that video games play a significant role in the lives of adolescents, while fertility attitudes among young adults are increasingly concerning. Consequently, this study focuses on players aged 18 to 35. Data collection commenced in April 2024, with the sample drawn from gaming communities associated with the game “Chinese Parents” on platforms such as BiliBili, Baidu Tieba, QQ, and WeChat, as well as university students from Anhui, Jiangsu, and Sichuan provinces. This approach aimed to encompass a diverse geographic range to mitigate regional bias. Before the formal study, informed consent was obtained from participants, and specific restrictions were implemented, such as limiting participation to “Chinese Parents” players. A preliminary study was conducted to refine the questionnaire by recruiting 100 players for a pilot test. This process resulted in revisions that clarified ambiguous questions, incorporated reverse-coded items, eliminated redundant items, and restructured the logical flow to ensure the survey was both concise and compelling.

We obtained student lists from university academic secretaries and had counselors randomly distribute 1,100 questionnaires via QQ and WeChat. This effort yielded 260 valid responses, resulting in a response rate of 23%. Additionally, we collected 352 responses from gaming community platforms, bringing the total number of valid questionnaires to 612. Regarding demographics, 260 respondents identified as male and 352 as female. Among the participants, 20% were under 20 years old, 41% were aged 20–23, and 39% were aged 23 or older. Detailed demographic data are presented in Table 1.

Data were collected through a questionnaire survey of players, and the proposed model was tested using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) rather than covariance-based SEM. PLS-SEM is a variance-based, nonparametric analytical approach (Kanchanawongpaisan, 2024). Given the exploratory nature of this study, the inclusion of a complex mediation model with multiple latent constructs, and the violation of normality assumptions in the data distribution, PLS-SEM was deemed more suitable for model estimation and hypothesis testing. Data were collected via an online survey and analyzed primarily using PLS-SEM (Smart PLS 4), in accordance with established guidelines for reflective measurement models. SPSS 27 was employed for initial data cleaning and descriptive analysis. The survey questionnaire was adapted from the relevant literature and used a 5-point Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree to agree strongly. Preliminary normality tests indicated that all constructs exhibited slight negative skewness (ranging from −0.976 to −1.406) and moderate kurtosis (ranging from −0.065 to 1.067), and PLS-SEM is more robust to non-normal data.

The independent variables in this study are GC, IF, PC, and PE. The dependent variable is FD. We utilize a questionnaire survey methodology to investigate the relationships among GC, IF, PC, PE, and FD.

IF was measured using an adapted version of the game character attachment scale developed by Lewis et al. (2008), which was subsequently translated and validated by Chinese researchers, including Wei Hua. The scale exhibited strong reliability and validity (Lewis et al., 2008). It comprises six items related explicitly to IF. In this study, the internal consistency coefficient (α) was 0.92.

PSRS: PSRS was measured using scales developed by Schramm and Hartmann (2008) and Rubin et al. (1985). The statements and descriptions were modified and refined in accordance with prior research to create the initial scale utilized in this study. The final scale comprises two dimensions: PE and PC, totaling six items (Schramm and Hartmann, 2008). The internal consistency coefficient (α) for this study was 0.80. GC: GC was assessed using the Media Character Identification Scale developed by Cohen (2018), which includes a sub-dimension specifically for GC (Cohen, 2018). This sub-dimension consists of two items, and the internal consistency coefficient (α) was 0.86.

FD was assessed using the FD Scale, which encompasses both Economic Practicality FD and Emotional FD. Chasiotis et al. (2006) demonstrated that affection for children positively predicts fertility intentions among young couples. Within the same cultural framework, emotional value emerges as the most significant factor (Chasiotis et al., 2006). According to the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991) and recent work on fertility motivation (Yu et al., 2023), an individual’s affective stance toward parenting scenarios is a primary determinant of fertility intention: positive emotional preferences increase the intention to have children, while negative emotions suppress it (McAllister et al., 2016). Consequently, this study modified the FD Scale to emphasize the Emotional FD sub-dimension. This sub-dimension comprises three items, with an internal consistency coefficient (α) of 0.88.

The literature indicates that age, gender, and the duration of game play may be associated with an individual’s FD. Consequently, these factors were treated as control variables in this study (see Table 2).

The initial stage involved evaluating the measurement model using SPSS 27 (Sen and Yildirim, 2022). This assessment focused on the reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the model variables. Table 3 displays the mean, standard deviation, Cronbach’s alpha, Composite Reliability (CR), Average Variance Extracted (AVE), and factor loadings for the items within the conceptual model. Cronbach’s alpha and CR values are commonly employed to evaluate reliability (Hair and Alamer, 2022). According to Fornell and Larcker (1981), the CR value should exceed 0.60, in conjunction with Cronbach’s alpha. The results presented in Table 3 indicate that the Cronbach’s alpha values for the five constructs in the conceptual model ranged from 0.863 to 0.929, while the CR values varied from 0.894 to 0.948. All values surpassed the critical threshold of 0.60, demonstrating high reliability (see Table 4).

Due to multicollinearity in the structural model, PLS-SEM path coefficients may be biased. To address this issue, we examined multicollinearity by assessing the variance inflation factor (VIF) for each measurement item. VIF values should not exceed 5 (Hair and Alamer, 2022). The results show that all VIF values in the model are below this threshold, indicating no multicollinearity.

To examine the path coefficients, their significance levels, and t-values, we employed a bootstrapping method with 5,000 subsamples. The results indicate that GC significantly contributes to PC (H1), PE (H2), and IF (H3), but not FD (H4). IF significantly contributes to PC (H5) and PE (H6), but not FD (H7). PC (H8) and PE (H9) both significantly contribute to FD. For more details, please refer to Figure 2. Table 5 presents the final hypothesis testing results.

To evaluate the overall fit of the constructed theoretical model, this study employs multiple fit indices. The results show that the standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) between the saturated and estimated models is 0.039 and 0.041, respectively, both below the acceptable threshold of 0.08, indicating good absolute fit (Hu and Bentler, 1999). Additionally, the non-normed fit index (NFI) is 0.878, approaching but slightly below the recommended standard of 0.90, suggesting that the model performs adequately in relative fit aspects. Although the chi-square value (χ² = 823.843) is significant, considering that the chi-square test is susceptible to influence from large sample sizes, its interpretation should be combined with other indices for comprehensive judgment. The d_ULS and d_G values are 0.258 and 0.196, respectively, indicating that the model is robust in parameter estimation.

Further analysis of the explanatory power of endogenous constructs reveals that the R² values for IF, PC, PE, and FD are 0.028, 0.038, 0.049, and 0.049, respectively, with adjusted R² values of 0.027, 0.036, 0.046, and 0.043. Although the overall explanatory power is low, it still indicates that the antecedent variables in the model have a certain degree of predictive effect on each outcome variable, particularly demonstrating weak but significant explanatory capacity in the aspects of PC and FD.

Additionally, the model’s predictive relevance is evaluated through cross-validated redundancy (Q²), with results showing: the Q² value for GC is 0.000, indicating a lack of external predictive capability; whereas the Q² values for IF, PC, PE, and FD reach 0.020, 0.028, 0.037, and 0.035, respectively, all greater than 0, suggesting that these constructs possess a certain degree of external predictive efficacy, supporting the model’s predictive validity (Hair and Alamer, 2022).

The mediating effects proposed in H10–H16 were examined using bootstrapping procedures in PLS-SEM. Table 6 summarizes the direct, indirect, and total effects, along with variance accounted for (VAF) values and mediation types.

H10 proposed that IF mediates the relationship between GC and PC. The results show that the direct effect of GC on PC is significant (β = 0.112, t = 2.712, p = 0.007), and the indirect effect via IF is also substantial (β = 0.024, t = 2.379, p = 0.017). The total impact is significant (β = 0.136, t = 3.292, p = 0.001), with a VAF of 17.60%, indicating partial mediation. Therefore, H10 is supported.

H11 examined whether IF mediates the relationship between GC and PE. The direct effect of GC on PE is significant (β = 0.160, t = 4.122, p < 0.001), as is the indirect effect through IF (β = 0.022, t = 2.215, p = 0.027). The total impact remains significant (β = 0.181, t = 4.588, p < 0.001), with a VAF of 12.20%, suggesting partial mediation. Thus, H11 is supported.

H12 proposed that PC mediates the relationship between GC and FD. Although the total effect is significant (β = 0.095, t = 2.23, p = 0.026), neither the direct effect (β = 0.045, t = 1.07, p = 0.285) nor the indirect effect via PC (β = 0.011, t = 1.665, p = 0.096) reaches statistical significance. The VAF is 10.50%, indicating no mediation. Therefore, H12 is not supported.

H13 tested whether PE mediates the relationship between GC and FD. The direct effect of GC on FD is non-significant (β = 0.045, t = 1.07, p = 0.285), while the indirect effect via PE is significant (β = 0.023, t = 2.378, p = 0.017). The total impact is substantial (β = 0.095, t = 2.23, p = 0.026), and the VAF reaches 24.20%, indicating complete mediation. Hence, H13 is supported.

H14 examined IF as a mediator between GC and FD. The direct effect is non-significant (β = 0.045, t = 1.07, p = 0.285), and the indirect effect via IF is also non-significant (β = 0.012, t = 1.462, p = 0.144). Although the total effect is significant (β = 0.095, t = 2.23, p = 0.026), the VAF is only 12.60%, indicating no mediation. Thus, H14 is not supported.

H15 proposed that PC mediates the relationship between IF and FD. The direct effect is marginal but non-significant (β = 0.072, t = 1.70, p = 0.089), and the indirect effect via PC does not reach significance (β = 0.013, t = 1.707, p = 0.088). Despite a significant total effect (β = 0.104, t = 2.505, p = 0.012), the VAF is only 12.50%, indicating no mediation. Therefore, H15 is not supported.

H16 examined whether PE mediates the relationship between IF and FD. The indirect effect is significant (β = 0.019, t = 2.238, p = 0.025), while the direct effect remains non-significant (β = 0.072, t = 1.70, p = 0.089). The total effect is significant (β = 0.104, t = 2.505, p = 0.012), and the VAF reaches 18.30%, indicating full mediation. Accordingly, H16 is supported.

Synthesizing the above findings, the study’s structural model (Figure 1) demonstrates that GC elevates FD through the mediation of IF and PE. This influence relies entirely on the affective pathway (PE). The cognitive pathway (PC) exerts no significant effect. These results confirm that simulation games shape players’ fertility attitudes primarily through emotional engagement and affiliative connection, rather than through deliberate cognitive changes.

We further clarify the conceptualization of Fertility Desire (FD) in our model. For this study, FD is operationalized and interpreted primarily as an affective-preference dimension: the emotional and intuitive responses to childbearing and parenting scenarios (e.g., feelings of warmth, joy, and nurturance). This affective dimension differs from the broader, multi-component fertility decision-making process, which also includes deliberative calculations (e.g., economic costs) and social normative pressures. The GC → IF → PE → FD pathway (Figure 1) represents the core psychological mechanism through which virtual experiences influence and sustain an individual’s affective preference for fertility. Affective preference stems primarily from direct experience and implicit attitudes, driving rapid, intuitive reactions. In contrast, full fertility intention involves more deliberative processes, including the internalization of social norms. Thus, the findings of this study pertain specifically to affective-level fertility motivation. The observed associations operate through intermediary psychological processes, with emotional processes playing a prominent role.

GC exerts a significant positive direct effect on both PC and PE. This finding supports Horton and Wohl’s (1956) foundational theory, which holds that media users form one-way connections with virtual characters to elicit cognitive and emotional responses. The direct influence of GC on IF can be explained by Role Attachment Theory. Cohen (2018) posits that deep game immersion drives players to align their self-concept with that of the in-game character. Notably, GC has no direct effect on FD. This result indicates that the immediate impact of virtual experiences centers primarily on emotional satisfaction rather than long-term decision-making (Tukachinsky et al., 2020). The observed PE-PC link reveals that strong prosocial emotions (e.g., care and protection) in simulation games activate players’ affective heuristics. Under such influence, players tend to overlook the programmed nature of virtual characters and subconsciously attribute subjective realism to them. This cognitive shift further promotes the perception of these characters as sentient beings in need of nurturance.

Mediation analysis clarifies the specific pathways linking virtual experiences to real-world intentions. The analysis relies on the theoretically grounded Correlational Mediation Model, which aims to explore interconnections among variables rather than validate causal mechanisms. A key finding emerges: the positive effects of GC and IF on FD are fully mediated by PE, as confirmed by Hypotheses H13 and H16. This result strongly supports the central hypothesis that virtual characters function as Attachment Objects. It indicates that the emotional connections (PE) players form in the game can extend to real-world motivations. Thus, this emotional pathway serves as an essential Necessary Route (Konijn et al., 2007).

The significance of sequential paths (e.g., H10, H11) confirms that deep GC first enhances players’ IF with virtual characters (Pham et al., 2023). This identification strongly predicts deeper emotional involvement (Brown and Basil, 2010). The finding reflects a progressive psychological process: immersion fosters identification, identification triggers emotions, and emotions ultimately shape intentions. The cognitive path (Parasocial Cognition) shows no significant mediating role (H12, H15). This highlights that in high-emotional-load contexts such as simulation parenting (Gates, 2024), relationship development and decision-making motivation rely more on emotional connections than on purely rational cognitive frameworks.

Second, GC—defined as a psychological state of deep immersion—exerts multifaceted impacts. Players’ attention direction during immersion determines the primary mediating pathway for processing psychological motivations. Attention may focus on relationship-building (social orientation) (Rain and Mar, 2021), situational and motivational understanding (cognitive orientation) (Yu et al., 2023), or direct emotional resonance (emotional orientation) (Martin and Cohen, 2023).

Attention focus significantly influences cooperative decisions in games, and comprehensive information processing facilitates socially optimal choices (Lugrin et al., 2025). The life simulation games analyzed here integrate social interaction, narrative guidance, and emotional engagement. In these games, GC acts as a fundamental antecedent variable. It operates through multiple psychological processing pathways: promoting IF with virtual characters, deepening PC-based understanding of characters’ motivations, and enhancing PE. This mechanism confirms GC’s multifaceted effects, which initiate concurrent mediating pathways that collectively influence final FD. The model developed in this study thus provides nuanced insights into the intricate psychological processes linking virtual experiences to real-world intentions, strengthening theoretical explanatory power.

The observed pattern confirms that emotional and relational factors play a key role in the psychological pathway linking virtual experiences to real-world FD. Cognitive and rational analysis exerts a relatively limited impact. This finding highlights an intriguing conflict: though labeled “Simulation”—a term tied to cognitive engagement—these games primarily exert profound effects on players through emotional factors (e.g., empathy and attachment), rather than rational considerations of parenting responsibilities.

We propose an exploratory Emotional Compensation Hypothesis for the 18–35-year-old cohort—this study’s focus—who face real-world pressures. For this group, strong PE toward virtual characters within the game’s psychological safe zone may not translate directly into concrete fertility plans (Arima, 2025). Instead, these emotions act as a low-risk emotional resource, compensating for perceived deficits in real-life social support and emotional reserves (Weibel and Wissmath, 2024). The primary role of this virtual emotional fulfillment is to sustain, and even replenish, an individual’s positive imagination and emotional vitality.

This study uses cross-sectional data, which allows only correlational examination of the variables rather than definitive causal inferences. Thus, causal interpretations drawn from these findings require further validation via alternative research designs.