The Progression of AI-Enabled Character Simulation: From Fimbulvetr to Next-Gen Language Models

In recent years, the domain of AI-assisted storytelling (RP) has undergone a significant evolution. What originated as niche experiments with early language models has grown into a dynamic landscape of tools, services, and enthusiasts. This article examines the current landscape of AI RP, from widely-used tools to innovative techniques.

The Growth of AI RP Platforms

Various tools have emerged as popular centers for AI-enhanced fiction writing and role-play. These allow users to engage in both traditional RP and more mature ERP (erotic role-play) scenarios. Characters like Stheno, or original creations like Lumimaid have become fan favorites.

Meanwhile, other platforms have gained traction for hosting and circulating "character cards" – customizable AI entities that users can converse with. The Backyard AI community has been especially active in designing and sharing these cards.

Advancements in Language Models

The accelerated 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 theoretical future model) demonstrate the expanding prowess of AI in generating coherent and situationally appropriate responses.

Model customization has become a vital technique for adjusting these models to unique RP scenarios or character personalities. This approach allows for more nuanced and consistent interactions.

The Push 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 "user-owned language processors" and local hosting solutions. Various "LLM hosting" services have sprung up to meet this need.

Endeavors like NeverSleep and implementations of CogniScript.cpp have made it feasible for users to operate powerful language models on their personal devices. This "on-device AI" approach appeals to those concerned about data privacy or those who simply relish customizing AI systems.

Various tools have grown in favor 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.

Pushing Boundaries and Exploring New Frontiers

The AI RP community is celebrated for its innovation and willingness here to break new ground. Tools like Cognitive Vector Control allow for precise manipulation over AI outputs, potentially leading to more dynamic and surprising characters.

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

Focused services have surfaced to serve 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 envision the future, several developments are becoming apparent:

Growing focus on on-device and confidential AI solutions
Creation of more sophisticated and efficient models (e.g., anticipated 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
Entities like Lumimaid hint at the potential for AI to produce entire imaginary realms and intricate narratives.

The AI RP field remains a hotbed of advancement, with communities like Backyard AI pushing the boundaries of what's possible. As GPU technology advances and techniques like cognitive optimization enhance performance, we can expect even more astounding AI RP experiences in the coming years.

Whether you're a casual role-player or a committed "quant" working on the next innovation in AI, the domain of AI-powered RP offers limitless potential for innovation and exploration.