How to Set Up and Use SillyTavern?

Robby

August 15, 2023

SillyTavern AI is an interactive artificial intelligence system designed for fun and entertainment. It simulates discussions and role-playing settings, offering users a unique experience characterized by wit, humor, and inventiveness.This guide provides a comprehensive overview of SillyTavern, its features, and step-by-step instructions on installation and usage.

SillyTavern is an interactive AI system that offers a unique blend of wit, humor, and creativity. It allows users to create and interact with custom characters in a text-based environment.

What is SillyTavern?

SillyTavern is an interface that lets users interact and roleplay with custom characters using locally installed language models (LLMs). Originating from Tavern AI 1.2.8 in February 2023, SillyTavern has since incorporated various advanced features not present in the original Tavern AI.

What can You Do with SillyTavern?

Engage in casual conversations, romantic dates, fantasy quests, and more.
Roleplay as yourself or as a fictional character.
Explore various scenarios and genres with your characters.

Key Features of SillyTavern

Mobile-friendly interface adaptable to any device.
Flexible backend API for connecting to various LLMs.
Waifu Mode for anime-style character interactions.

Horde Stable Diffusion for diverse AI responses.
Customizable appearance and UI.
Auto-translate function using Google API.

Group chat feature for multi-bot rooms.
Chat bookmarking and soft prompt features.

How to Install SillyTavern?

Install SillyTavern on Windows

Install NodeJS from the NodeJS website.

Download and install GitHub Desktop.
Launch GitHub Desktop and clone the SillyTavern repository.
Navigate to the cloned repository folder.

Double-click the “start.bat” file.
Wait for the installation to complete.
Verify the successful installation.

Start chatting with SillyTavern.

Install SillyTavern on Linux/MacOS

Install Git and NodeJS.
Launch the Terminal application.

Clone the SillyTavern repository.
Navigate to the SillyTavern installation folder.
Execute the start.sh script.

Wait for the installation to complete.
Start chatting with SillyTavern.

How to Set Up SillyTavern?

Setting up SillyTavern involves a series of steps that ensure you have a smooth and interactive experience with the AI. Here’s a detailed guide to help you set up SillyTavern on your device:

Set up SillyTavern on Windows

Prerequisites: Ensure your device is not running Windows 7 as SillyTavern won’t support it due to Node.js requirements.
Install NodeJS: Visit the NodeJS website and download the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) version. Follow the installation instructions tailored for your operating system.
GitHub Desktop Installation: Navigate to the GitHub Desktop website and download the application. Install it as per the guidelines provided.

Repository Cloning: After launching GitHub Desktop, opt for the “Clone a repository from the internet” option. You don’t need a GitHub account for this. In the subsequent menu, select the “URL” tab and input: https://github.com/SillyTavern/SillyTavern. Click “Clone”. You can alter the local path if you wish to modify the download location of SillyTavern.
Access the Repository: Using Windows Explorer, head to the folder where the repository was cloned. By default, it should be at: C:\Users\cloudbooklet\Documents\GitHub\SillyTavern.
Initiate SillyTavern: Within the repository folder, find the file named “start.bat” and double-click it. The file might appear as “Start” if your OS hides the “.bat” extension.

Installation Process: Post double-clicking the “start.bat” file, a command console window will pop up. Wait patiently as SillyTavern installs any required dependencies.
Installation Verification: Upon completion, the command console should display a message confirming the successful installation of SillyTavern. Concurrently, a SillyTavern tab should launch in your default web browser.
Begin Interaction: With SillyTavern now set up and the browser tab active, you’re free to connect to any supported APIs and commence your chat sessions.

Set up SillyTavern on Linux/MacOS

Prerequisites: Ensure Git and NodeJS are installed. Depending on your macOS version, follow the installation guidelines for both Git and NodeJS. Alternatively, you can use a package manager like Homebrew.
Terminal Launch: Open the Terminal application, typically found in the Applications folder under Utilities.
Repository Cloning: In the Terminal, decide the directory for repository cloning and navigate using the cd command. To clone SillyTavern, use the command: git clone https://github.com/SillyTavern/SillyTavern -b main for the Main branch or git clone https://github.com/SillyTavern/SillyTavern -b dev for the Dev branch.

Access the Repository: Use the cd command to enter the SillyTavern installation folder, like so: cd SillyTavern.
Run the Script: To initiate the installation and setup, execute the start.sh script using: ./start.sh or bash start.sh.
Installation Process: The script will handle the installation of necessary dependencies and SillyTavern’s configuration. Wait for this process to finish.

Begin Interaction: Once done, you can connect to any supported APIs and start your SillyTavern chat sessions.

How to Use SillyTavern Properly?

To get the most out of SillyTavern:

Familiarize yourself with the interface.

Explore the various features and plugins.
Create custom characters and scenarios.
Engage in interactive role-playing sessions.

Use the WorldInfo feature to store character lore.
Experiment with different LLMs for varied responses.

SillyTavern VS Tavern AI: What's the Difference?

Feature	SillyTavern	Tavern AI
Origin	Adapted from Tavern AI 1.2.8	Released in 2021
Updates	Regular major updates	Less frequent updates
Functions	Advanced functions not in original Tavern AI	Basic functions
Stability	Two-branch system for stability and experimentation	Single version

Conclusion

SillyTavern AI offers a rich and immersive experience for users looking to engage in AI-driven role-playing and conversations. With its advanced features and user-friendly interface, it stands out as a top choice for AI enthusiasts.