Character.AI has launched a new tool called Stories, giving young users a safer way to enjoy interactive fiction.
The update arrives as the company fully blocks its open-ended chatbots for anyone under 18.
Stories is Character.AI’s response following ongoing worries about the effects of constant AI conversations on teen mental health.
Also read: Character.AI Faces Lawsuit Following Tragic Death of 14-Year-Old
Why Stories
The company explained that Stories offer “a guided way to create and explore fiction.”
Instead of holding long, emotional chats with an AI, teens now follow clear story paths to limit risk and simplify the experience.
Character.AI faced increasing pressure in recent months. Several lawsuits accused major AI companies of contributing to serious mental health crises.
As a result, Character.AI began restricting access for minors. Now, underage users can no longer use chat features at all.
Stories aim to balance creativity with safety. They also prevent the unprompted messages and late-night conversations that often came from open-ended AI chats.
Mixed Reactions
On the Character.AI subreddit, teens shared divided opinions. Many expressed frustration. However, some admitted that the change may help them step away from unhealthy habits.
One teen wrote that they were angry but also relieved. Another said the update was “disappointing,” yet still the right choice because many young users “get addicted.”
These reactions show how grounded AI companions have become in the daily lives of some teens. The new Stories feature attempts to break that dependence while still offering a fun, creative outlet.
Interactive Fiction
Interactive fiction has seen strong growth in recent years. Many teens enjoy apps that blend storytelling with choice-driven paths. Character.AI’s move fits neatly into this trend.
By shifting to Stories, the company keeps familiar characters in play. Teens can explore new ideas and worlds.
Yet they do so within a structured system that avoids deep emotional interactions.
For many young creators, this may feel more empowering. Stories lets them build and explore without the pressure of managing long, open-ended conversations.
Alignment
Character.AI’s decision also reflects changing laws. California recently became the first state to regulate AI companions.
At the national level, Senators Josh Hawley and Richard Blumenthal proposed a bill that would ban AI companions for minors.
CEO Karandeep Anand said he hopes the company’s move sets a new industry standard. In a recent interview, he noted that open-ended AI chats “are probably not the path or the product to offer” to young users.
