The Evolution of AI-Powered Interactive Storytelling: From Ancient Myths to Local 70B Models
In the last few years, the realm of AI-driven character interaction (RP) has undergone a dramatic transformation. What originated as fringe projects with first-generation chatbots has grown into a vibrant ecosystem of platforms, resources, and user groups. This overview explores the present state of AI RP, from popular platforms to innovative techniques.
The Growth of AI RP Platforms
Various platforms have risen as well-liked hubs for AI-powered narrative creation and immersive storytelling. These allow users to engage in both classic role-playing and more risqué ERP (sensual storytelling) scenarios. Avatars like Stheno, or original creations like Poppy Porpoise have become popular choices.
Meanwhile, other platforms have gained traction for sharing and exchanging "character cards" – ready-to-use digital personas that users can converse with. The Chaotic Soliloquy community has been particularly active in creating and distributing these cards.
Innovations in Language Models
The swift evolution of neural language processors (LLMs) has been a primary catalyst of AI RP's proliferation. Models like LLaMA CPP and the fabled "HyperVerbal" (a hypothetical future model) highlight the increasing capabilities of AI in generating coherent and context-aware responses.
Fine-tuning has become a crucial technique for adapting these models to unique RP scenarios or character personalities. This approach allows for more refined and reliable interactions.
The Drive for Privacy and Control
As AI RP has become more widespread, so too has the demand for privacy and individual oversight. This has led to the development of "local LLMs" and self-hosted AI options. Various "LLM hosting" services have sprung up to satisfy this need.
Initiatives like Kobold AI and implementations of Llama.cpp have made it achievable for users to operate powerful language models on their own hardware. This "self-hosted model" approach attracts those focused on data privacy or those who simply enjoy experimenting with AI systems.
Various tools have gained popularity as accessible options for managing local models, including impressive 70B parameter versions. These more complex models, while processing-heavy, offer enhanced capabilities for intricate RP scenarios.
Breaking New Ground and Exploring New Frontiers
The AI RP community is recognized for its innovation and determination to push boundaries. Tools like Neural Path Optimization allow for detailed adjustment over AI outputs, potentially leading to more adaptable and unpredictable characters.
Some users seek out "unrestricted" or "enhanced" models, targeting maximum creative freedom. However, this provokes ongoing ethical debates within the community.
Specialized platforms have appeared to serve specific niches or provide unique approaches to AI interaction, often with a focus on "privacy-first" policies. Companies like recursal.ai and featherless.ai are among those exploring innovative approaches in this space.
The Future of AI RP
As we envision the future, several patterns are becoming apparent:
Heightened focus on on-device and confidential AI solutions
Advancement of more sophisticated and streamlined models (e.g., rumored LLaMA-3)
Exploration of novel techniques like more info "neversleep" for maintaining long-term context
Fusion of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more lifelike experiences
Entities like Euryvale hint at the prospect for AI to create entire imaginary realms and elaborate narratives.
The AI RP field remains a hotbed of innovation, with collectives like Backyard AI redefining the possibilities of what's achievable. As GPU technology progresses and techniques like neural compression improve efficiency, we can expect even more impressive AI RP experiences in the not-so-distant tomorrow.
Whether you're a curious explorer or a committed "quant" working on the next discovery in AI, the domain of AI-powered RP offers limitless potential for creativity and adventure.