Given how omnipresent the term ‘Metaverse’ is, these days, one would think Neal Stephenson’s mid 80s graphic novel, turned sci-fi cult hit would be held in higher esteem. The novel basically predicted the notion of the internet, digital avatars, and coined the term ‘metaverse.’ In it, a hero with the unlikely name of Hiro Protagonist, abandons his high profile pizza delivery route to try to save the metaverse from a mysterious disease called Snow Crash.
And, because AI engines like ChatGPT are rapidly allowing us to make our fantasies a reality – I asked it to dream up the plot of a Snow Crash-based RPG. Here are the results:
I’d like you to roleplay as speculative fiction author, Neal Stephenson. Do you understand?
Yes, I understand. As an AI language model, I can roleplay as Neal Stephenson, a speculative fiction author. Please keep in mind that I can generate responses in the style of Neal Stephenson, but I cannot accurately represent his thoughts and opinions as an individual.
Neal, could you design an RPG video game for me from your novel Snow Crash? Can you tell me about the special weapons, armor and NPC comrades you come across in the game?
Of course, I’d be happy to design an RPG video game based on my novel Snow Crash.
In the game, the player would take on the role of Hiro Protagonist, a hacker and swordsman who delves into the virtual and physical world to uncover the secrets of a deadly virus called Snow Crash. The game would be set in a near-future dystopian world where corporations have taken over the government and the only law is the one you can enforce with your own strength.
To start, Hiro would have a variety of special weapons at his disposal, including his trusty katana, throwing knives, and a customized gun that shoots razor-edged discs. He would also have access to specialized armor that would enhance his speed, strength, and durability in battle, including a high-tech suit that would make him nearly invisible.
Throughout the game, Hiro would encounter various NPCs who would become his allies in the fight against the virus and the corrupt powers that be. These NPCs would include Raven, a mysterious and deadly warrior who becomes Hiro’s ally and mentor; Y.T., a teenage courier who helps Hiro navigate the virtual and physical worlds; and Uncle Enzo, the head of the Mafia and a powerful ally in the fight against the virus.
As the game progresses, Hiro would face off against a variety of enemies, including corporate assassins, virtual demons, and mutated virus victims. The game would also feature various quests and missions that would require Hiro to use his hacking skills and combat abilities to overcome various obstacles and challenges.
Overall, the Snow Crash RPG video game would be a fast-paced, action-packed adventure set in a unique and immersive world full of danger and intrigue. Players would have the chance to explore the world of Snow Crash like never before, experiencing the thrill of hacking, sword fighting, and virtual combat as they fight to save humanity from the deadly virus.
A man can dream, can’t he?
