In recent years, the realm of AI-assisted storytelling (RP) has seen a significant evolution. What started as fringe projects with early language models has blossomed into a vibrant ecosystem of applications, resources, and enthusiasts. This piece explores the present state of AI RP, from popular platforms to groundbreaking techniques.

The Growth of AI RP Platforms

Various services have emerged as well-liked focal points for AI-enhanced fiction writing and immersive storytelling. These allow users to participate in both traditional RP and more risqué ERP (intimate character interactions) scenarios. Personas like Stheno, or custom personalities like Poppy Porpoise have become fan favorites.

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

Innovations in Language Models

The accelerated evolution of neural language processors (LLMs) has been a crucial factor of AI RP's proliferation. Models like Llama.cpp and the fabled "Mythomax" (a theoretical future model) showcase the growing potential of AI in creating coherent and environmentally cognizant responses.

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

The Drive for Privacy and Control

As AI RP has gained mainstream appeal, so too has the demand for confidentiality and individual oversight. This has led to the rise of "local LLMs" and on-premise model deployment. Various "LLM hosting" services have emerged to address this need.

Endeavors like Kobold AI and implementations of Llama.cpp have made it feasible for users to operate powerful language models on their local machines. This "local LLM" approach appeals to those worried about data privacy or those who simply appreciate customizing AI systems.

Various tools have grown in favor as user-friendly options for running local models, including impressive 70B parameter versions. These more complex models, while GPU-demanding, offer superior results for elaborate RP scenarios.

Breaking New Ground and Venturing into New Frontiers

The AI RP community is celebrated for its creativity and willingness to push boundaries. Tools like Orthogonal Activation Steering allow for fine-grained control over AI outputs, potentially leading to more dynamic and unpredictable characters.

Some users seek out "uncensored" or "obliterated" models, aiming for maximum creative freedom. However, this raises ongoing ethical debates within the community.

Focused tools have surfaced to address specific niches or provide unique 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 anticipate the future, several trends are emerging:

Heightened focus on on-device and confidential AI solutions
Creation of more capable and efficient models (e.g., rumored Quants)
Research of innovative techniques like "perpetual context" for maintaining long-term context
Fusion of AI with other technologies (VR, voice synthesis) for more engaging experiences
Personas like Poppy Porpoise hint at the prospect for AI to create entire fictional worlds and intricate narratives.

The AI RP field remains a crucible of innovation, with collectives here like Chaotic Soliloquy pushing the boundaries of what's attainable. As GPU technology progresses and techniques like quantization boost capabilities, we can expect even more remarkable AI RP experiences in the near future.

Whether you're a curious explorer or a dedicated "neural engineer" working on the next innovation in AI, the world of AI-powered RP offers limitless potential for creativity and adventure.