The world of the Elder Scrolls is entirely non-linear. Oblivion features a groundbreaking new AI system, called Radiant AI, which gives non-player characters (NPCs) the ability to make their own choices based on the world around them. Rather than following pre-scripted paths, every NPC is given a set of general goals they'd like to achieve, but the details of fulfilling that goal is entirely up to them. If a citizen is hungry, they'll look for a way to get food. They might buy food, hunt it, or steal it, then find a place to sit to eat and so on. This means that every one of the game's NPCs follows a full 24/7 schedule that continues whether or not the player is there to witness it. They'll sleep, go to church, and even steal items, all based on their individual characteristics.​