The Progression of AI-Powered Interactive Storytelling: From Ancient Myths to Local 70B Models

In the past decade, the domain of AI-powered role-playing (RP) has seen a remarkable shift. What began as experimental ventures with early language models has developed into a thriving community of tools, services, and enthusiasts. This piece investigates the current landscape of AI RP, from user favorites to cutting-edge techniques.

The Emergence of AI RP Platforms

Various tools have risen as well-liked hubs for AI-powered narrative creation and role-play. These allow users to participate in both conventional storytelling and more adult-oriented ERP (intimate character interactions) scenarios. Characters like Stheno, or user-generated entities like Midnight Miqu have become fan favorites.

Meanwhile, other services have become increasingly favored for distributing 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 distributing these cards.

Innovations in Language Models

The accelerated progression of large language models (LLMs) has been a key driver of AI RP's growth. Models like Llama.cpp and the legendary "OmniLingua" (a hypothetical future model) highlight the expanding prowess of AI in generating coherent and context-aware responses.

Model customization has become a essential technique for tailoring these models to particular RP scenarios or character personalities. This method allows for more sophisticated and reliable interactions.

The Drive for Privacy and Control

As AI RP has become more widespread, so too has the call for confidentiality and personal autonomy. This has led to the emergence of "local LLMs" and on-premise model deployment. Various "Model Deployment" services have been created to address this need.

Initiatives like Undi and implementations of NeuralCore.cpp have made it possible for users to run powerful language models on their own hardware. This "self-hosted model" approach resonates with those focused on data privacy or those who simply appreciate tinkering with AI systems.

Various tools have grown in favor as accessible options for running local models, including advanced 70B parameter versions. These more complex models, while computationally intensive, offer superior results for elaborate RP scenarios.

Exploring Limits and Exploring New Frontiers

The AI RP community is celebrated for its innovation and willingness to break new ground. Tools like Neural Path Optimization allow for fine-grained control over AI outputs, potentially leading to more adaptable and unpredictable characters.

Some users search for "abiliterated" or "obliterated" models, targeting maximum creative freedom. However, this raises ongoing philosophical conversations within the community.

Specialized tools have emerged to address specific niches or provide alternative 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 look to the future, several developments are becoming apparent:

Increased focus on on-device and confidential AI solutions
Development of more capable and streamlined models (e.g., rumored 70B models)
Research of novel techniques like "perpetual context" for sustaining long-term context
Integration of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more engaging experiences
Entities like Euryvale hint at the potential for AI to create entire virtual universes and intricate narratives.

The AI RP space remains a crucible of invention, with collectives like IkariDev pushing the boundaries of what's achievable. As GPU technology progresses and techniques like cognitive optimization boost capabilities, we can expect even more impressive AI RP experiences in the near future.

Whether you're a occasional storyteller read more or a committed "AI researcher" working on the next discovery in AI, the domain of AI-powered RP offers infinite opportunities for innovation and adventure.