The Evolution of AI-Driven Character Simulation: From Fimbulvetr to Next-Gen Language Models
In the last few years, the realm of AI-driven character interaction (RP) has undergone a significant evolution. What originated as fringe projects with early language models has grown into a dynamic landscape of tools, services, and enthusiasts. This overview explores the existing environment of AI RP, from popular platforms to cutting-edge techniques.
The Emergence of AI RP Platforms
Various services have risen as favored focal points for AI-enhanced fiction writing and character interaction. These allow users to engage in both classic role-playing and more adult-oriented ERP (intimate character interactions) scenarios. Characters like Euryvale, or original creations like Poppy Porpoise have become popular choices.
Meanwhile, other platforms have become increasingly favored for hosting and exchanging "character cards" – customizable AI entities that users can interact with. The IkariDev community has been especially active in crafting and sharing these cards.
Advancements in Language Models
The swift progression of large language models (LLMs) has been a key driver of AI RP's expansion. Models like Llama.cpp and the fabled "HyperVerbal" (a speculative future model) showcase the growing potential of AI in producing consistent and environmentally cognizant responses.
AI personalization has become a vital technique for adjusting these models to unique RP scenarios or character personalities. This approach allows for more refined and stable interactions.
The Movement for Privacy and Control
As AI RP has grown in popularity, so too has the demand for data privacy and user control. This has led to the development of "user-owned language processors" and local hosting solutions. Various "LLM hosting" services have sprung up to satisfy this need.
Endeavors like NeverSleep and implementations of NeuralCore.cpp have made it feasible for users to run powerful language models on their own hardware. This "local LLM" approach resonates with those focused on data privacy or those who simply appreciate experimenting with AI systems.
Various tools have gained popularity as intuitive options for managing local models, including powerful 70B parameter versions. These larger models, while processing-heavy, offer superior results for intricate RP scenarios.
Breaking New Ground and Venturing into New Frontiers
The AI RP community is recognized for its innovation and eagerness to push boundaries. Tools like Orthogonal Activation Steering allow for fine-grained control over AI outputs, potentially leading to more adaptable and surprising characters.
Some users pursue "unrestricted" or "obliterated" models, aiming for maximum creative freedom. However, this provokes ongoing moral discussions within the community.
Niche platforms have surfaced to address specific niches or provide unique approaches to AI interaction, often with a focus on "no logging" 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 taking shape:
Increased focus on on-device and confidential AI solutions
Creation of more powerful and streamlined chub.ai models (e.g., speculated LLaMA-3)
Research of innovative techniques like "neversleep" for sustaining long-term context
Combination of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more immersive experiences
Personas like Poppy Porpoise hint at the prospect for AI to generate entire virtual universes and elaborate narratives.
The AI RP space remains a crucible of innovation, with collectives like IkariDev redefining the possibilities of what's achievable. As GPU technology evolves and techniques like neural compression improve efficiency, we can expect even more remarkable AI RP experiences in the near future.
Whether you're a occasional storyteller or a passionate "AI researcher" working on the next discovery in AI, the world of AI-powered RP offers infinite opportunities for creativity and discovery.