Experimenting With Dumb Autonomous NPCs in the Browser
runvnc · reddit · 2026-07-13
The author conducted a browser-based autonomous NPC experiment using Gemma 4 E2B, allowing a group of characters to run commands, move, and interact locally.
The project intentionally makes the model "dumb," turning limitations into gameplay and comedic elements:
- NPCs can walk, talk, and view ASCII maps
- The environment supports limited destruction/modification, like fireballs and pushing barrels
- A record/replay mechanism is provided to export animated PNGs, which can be dragged back to restore the initial state and commands
The author positions this as an early but shareable toy experiment, hoping to continue exploring the concept of "dumb NPCs doing stupid things."
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