The Progression of AI-Enabled Role-Playing: From Ancient Myths to Local 70B Models
In the last few years, the world of AI-powered role-playing (RP) has seen a dramatic transformation. What originated as niche experiments with early language models has developed into a thriving community of applications, services, and enthusiasts. This article examines the current landscape of AI RP, from widely-used tools to groundbreaking techniques.
The Emergence of AI RP Platforms
Various tools have emerged as favored focal points for AI-assisted storytelling and immersive storytelling. These allow users to engage in both classic role-playing and more risqué ERP (intimate character interactions) scenarios. Characters like Euryvale, or custom personalities like Lumimaid have become community darlings.
Meanwhile, other services have become increasingly favored for hosting and sharing "character cards" – ready-to-use digital personas that users can converse with. The Backyard AI community has been particularly active in creating and sharing 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) demonstrate the growing potential of AI in producing consistent and situationally appropriate responses.
Model customization has become a essential technique for adapting these models to specific RP scenarios or character personalities. This process allows for more refined and stable 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 local hosting solutions. Various "Model Deployment" services have been created to address this need.
Projects like NeverSleep and implementations of NeuralCore.cpp have made it possible for users to utilize powerful language models on their personal devices. This "local LLM" approach attracts those concerned about data privacy or those who simply relish experimenting with AI systems.
Various tools have gained popularity as accessible options for running local models, including advanced 70B parameter versions. These larger models, while processing-heavy, offer enhanced capabilities for elaborate RP scenarios.
Pushing Boundaries and Venturing into New Frontiers
The AI RP community is known for its inventiveness and determination to break new ground. Tools like Cognitive Vector Control allow for fine-grained control over AI outputs, potentially leading to more dynamic and unpredictable characters.
Some users seek out "uncensored" or "obliterated" models, aiming for maximum creative freedom. However, this raises ongoing ethical debates within the community.
Specialized platforms have surfaced to address specific niches or provide novel approaches to AI interaction, often with a focus on "data protection" 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 developments are taking shape:
Growing focus on local and private AI solutions
Development of more powerful and streamlined models (e.g., anticipated 70B models)
Exploration of groundbreaking techniques like "neversleep" for sustaining long-term context
Fusion of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more engaging experiences
Characters like Poppy Porpoise hint at the prospect for AI to create entire imaginary realms and expansive narratives.
The AI RP domain remains a crucible of invention, with communities like Backyard AI expanding the limits of what's possible. As GPU technology evolves and techniques like cognitive optimization enhance performance, we can expect even more impressive AI RP experiences in the not-so-distant tomorrow.
Whether you're a occasional storyteller or a dedicated website "AI researcher" working on the next breakthrough in AI, the domain of AI-powered RP offers limitless potential for creativity and discovery.