AetherNexus

AetherNexus is an AI-powered, cloud-hosted platform that blends immersive 2D Unity web gameplay with community-driven storytelling and asset sharing. Designed for tabletop RPGs, it enables collaborative adventures with real-time multiplayer, intelligent NPCs, and flexible GM/AI management in a persistent fantasy world.

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Abstract

AetherNexus is a hybrid platform that merges immersive Unity-based gameplay with WordPress-powered community engagement, supported by Tencent Cloud infrastructure and advanced AI integration. Designed for tabletop RPG players and digital storytellers, the project enables collaborative storytelling in a persistent fantasy world shaped by player input and AI-driven systems.

The platform features real-time 2D webGL environments built in Unity, with customizable avatars, physics-based combat, and intelligent NPCs. AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek-R1 are used to generate dynamic dialogue, adaptive questlines, and rule-compliant decision-making. Game logic is guided by a custom Rulebook API based on D&D 5e and Pathfinder systems, with GM override functionality through a WordPress dashboard.

Community involvement is central to AetherNexus. Players and creators can contribute custom assets via Unity, which are curated and deployed through cloud-based WordPress plugins. With low-latency multiplayer support and persistent world-states maintained on global servers, the platform supports both hybrid digital/physical tabletop sessions and collaborative worldbuilding for writers and indie developers.

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