Alphinaud

[Lambdafish]

Is a primary NPC like a mascot? Y'shtola is the game mascot, though I don't mind if they switch that too.

Primary NPCs aren't like mascots, though the two can be, and often are, the same character. Primary NPCs are Nonplayer characters who serve as the protagonist or are central to the plot. Mascots are characters who are central to the promotion of the game, through advertising or external appearances.

Think of it like this: In Monster Hunter World, Zorah Magdaros would be a "primary NPC", whereas Rathalos is a mascot.