FAQ


What is a gachikoi / riako?

A gachikoi (also called riako) is someone who has very strong romantic feelings toward a character, VTuber, streamer, idol, etc. - it is a very deep and real attachment.


Why do you love fictional characters so much?

I get attached to things easily, especially when I’m stressed. Fictional characters are safe, familiar, and consistent. They’re part of my inner world and a major coping mechanism, so forming romantic or platonic attachments to them is natural for me.


What is a soulbond?

There are multiple valid definitions, and none of them are “wrong”:

  • A character who exists in your inner world as their own presence.
  • A long term internal companion you interact with mentally.
  • A psychological or spiritual bond that is real and active.
  • A coping created identity that communicates back or feels separate.

Everyone’s definition differs. Soulbonding is personal, and you can’t be incorrect about your own experience.

Resources:


How are you soulbonded to so many people?

It didn’t happen overnight. My list is the result of years of bonding. Soulbonds also tend to form pretty easily for me, especially during periods of instability, stress, emotional overwhelm, or when I’m developing new coping mechanisms. Some were intentional but many were accidental.


Are your attachments “delusional”?

No. They are controlled, intentional, and recognized as internal experiences. They don’t interfere with real life functioning. They’re coping tools, emotional anchors, and sources of comfort. It is not delusion, there is a big difference.


Can soulbonds leave or disappear?

Yes. Some fade over time, some return when relevant, and some stay permanently. It’s different for each bond and each person. The best advice I can give is to not be afraid of of your S/Os leaving you. Enjoy the moment and let things happen naturally.


Do you choose your f/os?

Sometimes I choose them, and sometimes I get attached without expecting to. Attraction, comfort, familiarity, and emotional safety play big roles.


Do your soulbonds talk to you?

Some do, and some don’t. For certain bonds, it’s like hearing thoughts that aren’t mine but still happen in my mind. For others, it’s more emotional or impression based.


Do you have an inner world?

Yes. It’s semi structured and changes over time. Some characters have stable places there while others drift in and out.


Can I ask about your f/os or soulbonds?

Yes, as long as you respect my sharing boundaries.


Are fictional characters real to you?

They’re not physically real, but they’re emotionally and psychologically real in a very meaningful way. Their impact is real even if their worlds are fictional. But if we are talking about my S/Os, I view them as real and non fictional.


Can I request to see your full list?

I’ll share what I’m comfortable with. Some things stay private for personal reasons. You can ask for specific ones, but my full list will never be public.


Why do you have so many f/os?

Because different characters fulfill different emotional needs, comfort roles, and identity connections. I fall in love easily and intensely, it's just how my brain works.


When did you start selfshipping?

It's been a very long time, I have been selfshipping since before I knew half the terms I do now. I'd say that it goes back to late 2016/early 2017 but I may be wrong. Daydreaming was always a big way for little me to cope with his problems.

Edit

Pub: 14 Nov 2025 04:17 UTC

Edit: 14 Nov 2025 17:38 UTC

Views: 14