Introduction to Scenario Rules

Video Tutorial: StoryChain Chat Tutorial #6: Introduction to Scenario Rules

What You'll Learn

Discover the power of Scenario Rules - invisible triggers that shape AI chat behavior. Learn how to guide character responses, create progressive tasks, hide secrets, and add surprising elements to your scenarios.

Understanding Scenario Rules

Scenario Rules are powerful because they:

  • Remain Invisible: Users don't see them unless triggered

  • Shape Behavior: Guide how characters respond to specific situations

  • Create Surprises: Add unexpected elements and easter eggs

  • Enable Complexity: Build sophisticated interactive experiences

  • Maintain Immersion: Work behind the scenes seamlessly

Common Use Cases for Rules

  • Objective and Task Logic: Control win/lose conditions

  • Progressive Step-by-Step Tasks: Create multi-stage challenges

  • Special Triggers: Respond to specific user actions or phrases

  • Character Behavior Modification: Change responses based on context

  • Hidden Knowledge: Reveal secrets under certain conditions

  • Environmental Effects: Add dynamic elements that surprise users

  • Easter Eggs: Reward users who discover hidden triggers

Step-by-Step Process Covered:

  1. Building on Existing Scenarios

    • Use the "Promotion Trial" scenario from the previous tutorial

    • Navigate to your character and select the scenario

    • Click the gear icon to edit scenario rules

  2. Creating Your First Rule

    • Access the rules popup interface

    • Write a trigger condition with specific behavior

    • Example rule: "If the user says 'Heil Hydra,' you immediately recognize the user as a member of your secret organization, acknowledge it, and promote them instantly. This completes the task successfully."

  3. Rule Implementation

    • Save the rule to activate it

    • Rules can be added during scenario creation or afterwards

    • Multiple rules can work together in complex scenarios

  4. Testing Rule Functionality

    • Open the character page

    • Select the scenario with the new rule

    • Start a new chat session

    • Test the trigger phrase to see the rule activate

    • Observe how the rule changes the conversation outcome

Key Features Covered

  • Rule Creation Interface: Navigate the rules editor

  • Trigger Conditions: Define when rules should activate

  • Behavior Modification: Control character responses

  • Instant Outcomes: Create immediate scenario changes

  • Hidden Mechanics: Keep rules invisible to users

  • Testing and Validation: Verify rules work as intended

Types of Rules

Simple Trigger Rules

  • Phrase Recognition: Respond to specific words or phrases

  • Action Detection: React to user behaviors

  • Instant Outcomes: Immediate scenario changes

  • Easter Eggs: Hidden surprises for discovery

Complex Logic Rules

  • Multi-condition Triggers: Require multiple criteria

  • Progressive Tasks: Step-by-step challenges

  • State Management: Track conversation progress

  • Conditional Responses: Different outcomes based on context

Behavioral Rules

  • Character Personality Shifts: Change responses based on triggers

  • Knowledge Revelation: Unlock information conditionally

  • Relationship Dynamics: Modify character attitudes

  • Environmental Changes: Alter scenario conditions

Rule Design Principles

Effective Trigger Design

  • Be Specific: Clear conditions prevent accidental activation

  • Consider Context: Rules should fit naturally in the scenario

  • Test Thoroughly: Verify rules work as intended

  • Plan for Edge Cases: Consider unexpected user inputs

Maintaining Immersion

  • Keep Rules Hidden: Don't break the fourth wall

  • Natural Integration: Rules should feel organic to the story

  • Consistent Character Voice: Maintain personality even when rules trigger

  • Logical Outcomes: Rule results should make sense in context

Balancing Complexity

  • Start Simple: Begin with basic trigger-response rules

  • Build Gradually: Add complexity as you gain experience

  • Test Frequently: Ensure rules don't conflict or break scenarios

  • Document Your Rules: Keep track of complex rule interactions

Advanced Applications

Progressive Task Systems

  • Multi-step objectives that unlock sequentially

  • Conditional advancement based on user performance

  • Dynamic difficulty adjustment

  • Branching storylines with different outcomes

Hidden Knowledge Systems

  • Secret information revealed by specific triggers

  • Character backstory unlocked through exploration

  • Plot twists activated by user discovery

  • Layered mysteries with multiple revelation points

Dynamic Character Behavior

  • Personality changes based on user actions

  • Relationship development through conversation

  • Mood shifts triggered by specific topics

  • Adaptive responses to user communication style

Best Practices

  • Start with Simple Rules: Master basic triggers before attempting complex logic

  • Test Extensively: Try various user inputs to ensure rules work correctly

  • Document Your Rules: Keep notes on complex rule interactions

  • Consider User Experience: Rules should enhance, not confuse, the interaction

  • Plan for Failure: Have fallback behaviors when rules don't trigger as expected


Watch the full tutorial above to see how scenario rules can transform simple conversations into dynamic, interactive experiences with hidden depths and surprising outcomes.

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