In this episode of the Lair of Secrets podcast, we’re talking about generative AI as a tool in gaming! We’re looking at how the overhyped tech can assist game masters and players alike. We provide real-game examples of using ChatGPT prompts both during prep and in game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGCQGdfwCeA

Main topic: ChatGPT and Generative AI in RPG Prep

What do we mean when we talk about AI?

Limit to Generative AI (large language models, image generation, etc)

How does it work?

Kyle Hill explains

Generative AI in Gaming

Explanation of the role of AI in gaming history, and how generative AI models have changed the game. (This is for video games, however, tools for TTRPGs can be extrapolated)

Generative AI systems have been utilized in games like Dwarf Fortress and Deep Rock Galactic for procedural level and environment generation

Ubisoft's Ghostwriter AI assists scriptwriters in creating varied and engaging NPC dialogues, freeing their time for other core plot elements​​.

Generative AI systems are increasingly used in the gaming industry, including in voice synthesis and text-to-speech, but human creativity and judgment remain crucial in the development process​

Benefits of using Generative AI in RPGs

Benefits of Using Generative AI in RPGs 

Enhancing creativity: AI can generate content that is unexpected, creating a sense of novelty and exploration.

Reducing game master workload: AI can automate aspects of game management, such as NPC interactions and world generation.

NPC Dialogue Generation

Example Prompt: "Generate a dialogue for a suspicious tavern owner when players ask about the local rumors."

Plot Development

Example Prompt: "The players have just found a mysterious artifact in an ancient temple. What could be the implications or potential story arcs?"

World Building

Example Prompt: "Describe a bustling market in a futuristic cyberpunk city."

NPC Character Creation

Example Prompt: "Create a character profile for a rogue elf with a mysterious past."

Scenario Planning

Example Prompt: "What kind of challenges or obstacles could the  players encounter while navigating through a haunted forest?"

Campaign Backstory Creation

Example Prompt: "Provide a backstory for a campaign set in a world where magic is considered a crime."

Creating Unique Items or Spells

Example Prompt: "Create a unique magical item for a level 10 wizard."

Generating Puzzles or Riddles

Example Prompt: "Generate a riddle that the players must solve to unlock a hidden door in a crypt."

Rules Clarification

Example Prompt: "What are the rules for casting a spell using a bonus action in D&D 5e?"

Improvisation Assistance

Example Prompt: "The players have taken an unexpected turn and decided to ally with the villain. How could this affect the storyline?"

Personalization: AI can adapt the game to individual players' styles and preferences.

Accessibility: AI can make RPGs more accessible for those who might not have a human game master or a group to play with. (Solo RPG enhancement)

Examples of using ChatGPT in Role-Playing Game Prep

Examples of things we have done

Chris’s Dresden Game

Individual plot paths for players

Enhanced search and extrapolation as fodder 

Riddles and poems

Mashups

Rules crunching

NO MATH

David’s steampunk game

One shot game

Starting with a description of the setting

Helped with the title of the setting

Created character stats for the player characters

Not perfect, but good enough for a one shot

Worked with creating character descriptions

Used those descriptions to create character portraits in Midjourney

Names - overkill for a name generator

Descriptions of locations

Helped with different plot ideas

Ken’s Elemental Apocalypse game

Brainstorming fire-themed character ideas for an evil adventuring party.