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

In recent years, the realm of AI-powered role-playing (RP) has experienced a dramatic transformation. What began as experimental ventures with early language models has developed into a vibrant ecosystem of applications, resources, and enthusiasts. This piece examines the present state of AI RP, from widely-used tools to cutting-edge techniques.

The Rise of AI RP Platforms

Various tools have come to prominence as popular centers for AI-assisted storytelling and character interaction. These allow users to experience both classic role-playing and more risqué ERP (sensual storytelling) scenarios. Personas like Noromaid, or original creations like Poppy Porpoise have become popular choices.

Meanwhile, other websites have gained traction for sharing and exchanging "character cards" – customizable AI entities that users can converse with. The Chaotic Soliloquy community has been particularly active in creating and distributing these cards.

Advancements in Language Models

The rapid development of advanced AI systems (LLMs) has been a crucial factor of AI RP's expansion. Models like Llama.cpp and the legendary "OmniLingua" (a theoretical future model) showcase the increasing capabilities of AI in generating coherent and context-aware responses.

Fine-tuning has become a vital technique for adjusting these models to particular RP scenarios or character personalities. This method allows for more nuanced and consistent interactions.

The Movement for Privacy and Control

As AI RP has gained mainstream appeal, so too has the call for privacy and user control. This has led to the development of "local LLMs" and on-premise model 70b model deployment. Various "AI-as-a-Service" services have sprung up to satisfy this need.

Initiatives like Kobold AI and implementations of CogniScript.cpp have made it feasible for users to utilize powerful language models on their personal devices. This "local LLM" approach resonates with those worried about data privacy or those who simply relish experimenting with AI systems.

Various tools have gained popularity as intuitive options for running local models, including powerful 70B parameter versions. These more complex models, while processing-heavy, offer superior results for complex RP scenarios.

Pushing Boundaries and Investigating New Frontiers

The AI RP community is recognized for its innovation and eagerness to challenge limits. Tools like Cognitive Vector Control allow for detailed adjustment over AI outputs, potentially leading to more adaptable and surprising characters.

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

Focused tools have appeared to serve 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 becoming apparent:

Heightened focus on self-hosted and secure AI solutions
Creation of more capable and efficient models (e.g., rumored Quants)
Research of innovative techniques like "neversleep" for maintaining long-term context
Fusion of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more lifelike experiences
Personas 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 innovation, with collectives like Backyard AI expanding the limits of what's possible. As GPU technology evolves and techniques like neural compression improve efficiency, we can expect even more astounding AI RP experiences in the coming years.

Whether you're a casual role-player or a passionate "quant" working on the next discovery in AI, the realm of AI-powered RP offers endless possibilities for innovation and exploration.