NovelAI is a subscription tool by Anlatan for writing stories with AI help. Unlike general assistants, its workspace feels like a writing editor: you write your own text and the model continues it, and you can keep world and character details in a lorebook so the model remembers them as you write. It also includes image generation for characters and scenes.

What is NovelAI good for?#

  • Writing stories and novels: a fantasy or sci-fi author moves chapters forward with the model's help.
  • World-building: you record cities, rules and characters in the lorebook so the story stays consistent.
  • Text adventures: a game-like mode similar to interactive text games.
  • Character illustration: create anime-style character images for your story or game.
  • Role-playing: build dialogue and scenes with imaginary characters.

Strengths and weaknesses#

Strengths:

  • An editor-style interface with good control over style.
  • A lorebook that keeps stories consistent.
  • Image generation in the same tool.
  • Focused on writing, not general chat.

Weaknesses:

  • There is no real free plan.
  • It takes some time to learn its tools.
  • Non-English output, including Persian, is weaker than English.
  • Output needs editing and does not replace the author.

Free version and pricing#

NovelAI is subscription-based, with plans that differ by features and credits. There is usually a limited trial, but serious use needs a subscription. Check the official site for current prices.

Language support#

The models are tuned mainly for English. You can enter Persian, but quality is lower and it is not recommended for long stories. Access from Iran is uncertain; sign-up and payment usually require an international card.

Getting started in three steps#

  1. Create an account and sign in with the limited trial or a subscription.
  2. Open a new story and write a few opening paragraphs.
  3. Record characters and the world in the lorebook and ask the model to continue.

NovelAI alternatives#

  • AI Dungeon: more of an interactive game, and easier to start.
  • Sudowrite: a novel-writing tool with editing and rewriting features.
  • Character.AI: chatting with imaginary characters instead of writing stories.