Tutorial: RNN Fantasy Character Name Generator Pytorch

Advances in sequential modeling via deep learning allows procedurally generated names for RPG characters that belong in Tolkienesque worlds. I used pretty much the simplest sequential model - an RNN, more specifically a variation of CHARNN, to train a network capable of producing interesting names when sampled with various characters and category conditions (the language class).

The categories include:

• dwarf
• man
• elf
• ainur

Take a closer look at the dataset here - it’s a dump of names from the Tolkien universe w/a class label.

after just a few minutes training on my nvidia 2070 super, the network is capable of reconstructing the following names:

Dwarf

• Romi
• Ulmor
• Salin

Elf

• Galdir
• Elenel
• Rimegell

Man

• Serimin
• Parandil
• Arandil

Ainur

• Miner
• Orome
• Nain

Pytorch implementation source code available here