The Advancement of AI-Enabled Role-Playing: From Ancient Myths to Local 70B Models

In the last few years, the domain of AI-powered role-playing (RP) has undergone a dramatic transformation. What originated as fringe projects with primitive AI has blossomed into a dynamic landscape of platforms, platforms, and enthusiasts. This article investigates the present state of AI RP, from popular platforms to groundbreaking techniques.

The Rise of AI RP Platforms

Various tools have emerged as well-liked hubs for AI-enhanced fiction writing and character interaction. These allow users to engage in both classic role-playing and more adult-oriented ERP (erotic role-play) scenarios. Personas like Stheno, or user-generated entities like Midnight Miqu have become fan favorites.

Meanwhile, other websites have gained traction for sharing and circulating "character cards" – pre-made AI personalities that users can converse with. The Chaotic Soliloquy community has been especially active in crafting and spreading these cards.

Advancements in Language Models

The swift progression of large language models (LLMs) has been a crucial factor of AI RP's proliferation. Models like LLaMA CPP and the mythical "Mythomax" (a speculative future model) demonstrate the growing potential of AI in creating logical and environmentally cognizant responses.

Fine-tuning has become a crucial technique for adapting these models to specific RP scenarios or character personalities. This process allows for more nuanced and consistent 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 self-hosted AI options. Various "AI-as-a-Service" services have emerged to address this need.

Initiatives like Undi and implementations of Llama.cpp have made it possible 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 relish customizing AI systems.

Various tools have become widely adopted as accessible options for deploying local models, including impressive 70B parameter versions. These larger models, while processing-heavy, offer superior results for intricate RP scenarios.

Exploring ERP Limits and Exploring New Frontiers

The AI RP community is celebrated for its inventiveness and eagerness to push boundaries. Tools like Orthogonal Activation Steering allow for detailed adjustment over AI outputs, potentially leading to more adaptable and spontaneous characters.

Some users seek out "abiliterated" or "enhanced" models, aiming for maximum creative freedom. However, this provokes ongoing moral discussions within the community.

Specialized tools have appeared to cater to specific niches or provide novel 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 patterns are taking shape:

Increased focus on on-device and confidential AI solutions
Development of more sophisticated and optimized models (e.g., anticipated 70B models)
Exploration of innovative techniques like "neversleep" for sustaining long-term context
Integration of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more lifelike experiences
Characters like Euryvale hint at the potential for AI to create entire fictional worlds and intricate narratives.

The AI RP space remains a crucible of innovation, with groups like Backyard AI expanding the limits of what's attainable. As GPU technology advances and techniques like cognitive optimization improve efficiency, we can expect even more remarkable AI RP experiences in the not-so-distant tomorrow.

Whether you're a occasional storyteller or a passionate "quant" working on the next innovation in AI, the domain of AI-powered RP offers endless possibilities for imagination and adventure.