The computer programming group Lambda Labs recently released a Pokémon-generating AI that takes ordinary keywords and transforms them into new Pocket Monsters.
As detailed on Kotaku, this AI utilizes the "Replicate" tool, which enables people to create their own machine learning models and run them in the cloud. Using a process called "Fine Tuning Stable Diffusion," Lambda Labs' AI generates Pokémon designs based on the keywords that users type into it. After users enter the word, the designs take about a minute to generate. The Kotaku article showcases several examples of the AI's work, including designs inspired by the keywords "Donald Trump" and "Super Mario." Notably, this AI can also generate designs based on nonsensical, invented words, as Kotaku demonstrated with their "Babadook" creation.
Turning Real People Into Pokémon
Generally, Pokémon generated by typing in the names of known characters or actors will usually have some aesthetic connection to those figures. For instance, Kotaku shared a bi-pedal monster design based on the keywords "Lara Croft." This monster's body shape somewhat resembles that of its namesake, and it also has long, black limbs that appear to represent Lara's guns. The aforementioned Super Mario design, on the other hand, does not resemble the overall-wearing plumber, but it does have what appears to be a red mushroom cap attached to its back, which makes sense considering that Mario hails from the Mushroom Kingdom. Halo's Master Chief even became a Pokémon, with the generated recreating his armor perfectly as a pocket monster.
Lambda Labs designs, manufactures and markets Deep Learning workstations, servers, laptops and GPU Cloud services. Deep Learning is a machine learning technique that imitates how humans gain certain types of knowledge. Learning by example is one method that has been integrated into this technology, making it essential to the development of driverless cars by enabling them to do things such as recognize traffic signs. Deep Learning is also utilized for voice control in phones, tablets and hands-free speakers.
While Lambda Lab's AI allows people to easily create their own monsters, the upcoming games Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will introduce the next official generation of Pocket Monsters to the franchise. Scarlet and Violet take players on a journey through a brand-new region called Paldea and offer them three distinct storylines to complete. The games are also introducing a new gimmick called the Terastal Phenomenon, which allows Pokémon to transform, giving them a crystalline appearance and increasing their powers.
Those who want to try out Lambda's Labs' Pokémon generator can access it here. Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet launch for Nintendo Switch on Nov. 18.
Source: Kotaku, Lambda's Labs