If you want a glimpse of how AI/LLM technology might be used to bring new users into the virtual world, check out Ask Narrator, a new-ish feature to Crack Den, the long-running role-playing MMO built in SL:
Click here to teleport, then get the HUD on the nearby table.
"This feature is more than just a tool," lead developer Nadir Taov tells me, "it’s a glimpse into how AI can transform onboarding and deepen connections in our virtual community. As someone who’s passionate about UX, I see this as a game-changing way to empower players, especially newcomers, to integrate into our gritty, immersive world."
Nadir built the Narrator on top of GPT4o and other LLMs, based on the Crack Den story bible which goes back to 2008. He tells me it's already improved user engagement. It's also a glimpse of an even more ambitious project he has coming soon:
"I’m working on a new world where I can take the narrator into more of a personal companion - something along the lines of a digital shepherd designed to take players deeper into the metaverse. Connects players together, provides guidance, story lore -- purpose to be in the metaverse."
Linden Lab has discussed tech like this to help grow Second Life, and is being bandied about by other platforms as a panacea. As usual, a community developer is innovating here first.
As for Crack Den, read my epic history of the often misunderstood MMO/community here on my Patreon.
Comments