I’ve decided to take the concept of ‘Surfball’ the sport I’ve been envisioning for more than a decade and which I think I may have perfected into a playable sport with the assistance of ChatGPT – and to write a cinematic novel about it – also with the assistance of ChatGPT. I’m doing much of this in live five-minute sessions recorded and shared via Youtube. The point is to show how using ChatGPT or other AI can eliminate a lot of the drudge work so long as you know how to ask the correct questions and create your queries in such a way as to get usable output. Also, very important is understanding just how much you need to throw out. Like a bonsai tree, it’s equal parts what you leave and what you take away. This is an intro video that talks about how I created the sport in brief:
These are two five minute sessions in which I generated the idea and briefly refined it:
Here is what I’ve kept from the two previous sessions:
Title: “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown”
Synopsis:
Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown is a captivating tale that merges rivalry, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of glory. It celebrates the extraordinary feats of surfballers, the bonds forged in the face of fierce competition, and the sheer thrill of riding the waves. In the dynamic world of Surfball, a new sport that combines the thrill of surfing with the intensity of rugby, a young surfer named Max Evans emerges as the first superstar. Max, a natural talent with a rebellious spirit, becomes the catalyst for a revolution that will change the face of the sport forever.
This story takes place in two arenas – the first, the Surfball arena itself where two teams clash as they define the ethos of a new sport. The second is the arena of sports business where Malcolm “Wave Tyrant” Thompson, a controlling boomer businessman is determined to bend the sport to his vision and reap all of the rewards that come with it.
In the Surfball arena – two rival teams clash in a battle for supremacy. The Stormriders, led by Captain Jax Wilson, face off against The Aquafury, commanded by the fearless Lucia Rodriguez. With contrasting styles and colorful personalities, these teams dive headfirst into an adrenaline-fueled quest for victory. Surfball takes place in an arena with a double Olympic swimming pool, equipped with wave machines at the center. The gameplay involves riding surfboards while passing the ball forward, back, or laterally. Boards serve as tools for carrying, blocking, and tackling opponents.
Max Evans, a brooding and skilled surfer, stands as the rising star of The Stormriders. Joined by his teammates, they don sleek black and silver uniforms, symbolizing their tenacity and determination. Captain Jax Wilson, a charismatic and experienced surfer, leads the team with a perfect blend of strategy and camaraderie. Guiding them is Coach Anita “Wavewise” Sanchez, a weathered yet wise figure known for her unorthodox methods.
Amidst the rivalries and intense competition, Max finds an unexpected love interest in Riley, a transgender surfer with an infectious passion for the sport. Together, they face not only the challenges of Surfball but also the prejudices and obstacles that arise from being true to themselves in a competitive environment. Riley, alongside Max brings a fresh perspective to the team. Their presence serves as a catalyst for personal growth and acceptance within the Surfball community.
On the opposing side, The Aquafury dominates the waves with their aggressive audacious style. Lucia “Tidalforce” Rodriguez, a skilled and fearless surfer, commands attention as their captain. Coach Hunter “Mercury” Anderson, a tactical mastermind, stands resolute at the sidelines.
Amidst the Surfball arena’s electric atmosphere, the gameplay unfolds with awe-inspiring maneuvers. The teams ride the waves, passing the Surfball with precision and executing remarkable tackles and blocks. The Stormriders’ calculated and synchronized approach clashes with The Aquafury’s aggressive and fearless style, creating an enthralling spectacle.
As the rivalry intensifies in the Surfball Arena, Max, Riley, and all of the Surfball players and coaches are forced to confront Malcolm’s manipulative schemes as he seeks to turn the amazing new sport into his personal fiefdom.
As Max’s stardom rises, Luna, an old woman with a deep connection to the ocean, becomes a guiding presence in his life. Luna possesses a wisdom and mystical aura that helps Max navigate the treacherous waters of fame, reminding him of the true essence of Surfball and the importance of staying true to oneself. Luna’s role becomes crucial in unraveling Malcolm’s deceit and preserving the integrity of Surfball. Her understanding of the natural elements and her ability to communicate with the sea bestows Max and his team with a deeper connection to the sport and its origins. Her mystical connection to the ocean and wise counsel provide guidance and support as they navigate the challenges both on and off the waves.
The commentator’s voice amplifies the excitement in the arena, immersing the crowd in the drama. The fate of the game hangs in the balance as Max evades defenders, Lucia unleashes daring maneuvers, and Captain Jax orchestrates strategic plays. Playing counterpoint to this dramatic sports story, the sports business drama also unfolds creating even more tension as the story builds to a climax.
With each moment propelling the game closer to its climactic conclusion, the tensions reach a fever pitch. Surfball becomes a conduit for the surfers’ passion, skill, and unwavering determination. The final moments unfold in a symphony of crashing waves, exhilarating passes, and heart-stopping goals in the arena all while the game appears to be lost in the battle raging outside of the arena.
In the end, the true essence of Surfball shines through. It is a testament to the raw athleticism, teamwork, and indomitable spirit of these exceptional athletes. Max, Riley, Captain Jax, and Coach Anita leave an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations to ride the waves of their own destinies. This story explores the exhilarating journey of Max as he defies conventions, challenges the establishment, and fights for the freedom and authenticity of the sport he loves. It is a story of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of breaking barriers, both on and off the waves.
I rewrote and added details to the synopsis above and cut out quite a lot of ‘noise’ and then asked ChatGPT to create character sheets for all of the mentioned characters – these will be helpful:
Character Sheets:
1. Max Evans:
– Description: Brooding and skilled surfer with a rebellious spirit.
– Role: Rising star of The Stormriders.
– Personality: Tenacious, determined, and passionate.
– Relationships: Love interest of Riley.
– Team: The Stormriders.
– Symbolic Colors: Black and silver.
– Attributes: Natural talent, athleticism, and a catalyst for change.
– Character Arc: Defying conventions, challenging the establishment, and fighting for the freedom and authenticity of Surfball.
2. Riley:
– Description: Transgender surfer with an infectious passion for the sport.
– Role: Love interest of Max and catalyst for personal growth and acceptance.
– Personality: Passionate, resilient, and true to themselves.
– Relationships: Love interest of Max.
– Team: The Stormriders.
– Attributes: Fresh perspective, resilience, and determination.
– Character Arc: Overcoming prejudices and obstacles, fostering acceptance within the Surfball community.
3. Captain Jax Wilson:
– Description: Charismatic and experienced surfer.
– Role: Captain of The Stormriders, providing leadership and strategy.
– Personality: Charismatic, experienced, and strategic.
– Relationships: Leader of The Stormriders.
– Team: The Stormriders.
– Attributes: Charisma, leadership, and strategic thinking.
4. Coach Anita “Wavewise” Sanchez:
– Description: Weathered yet wise figure known for unorthodox methods.
– Role: Coach of The Stormriders, guiding the team.
– Personality: Weathered, wise, and unorthodox.
– Relationships: Mentor to The Stormriders.
– Team: The Stormriders.
– Attributes: Wisdom, unorthodox methods, and guidance.
5. Lucia “Tidalforce” Rodriguez:
– Description: Skilled and fearless surfer.
– Role: Captain of The Aquafury, commanding attention.
– Personality: Skilled, fearless, and audacious.
– Relationships: Leader of The Aquafury.
– Team: The Aquafury.
– Attributes: Skill, fearlessness, and audacity.
6. Coach Hunter “Mercury” Anderson:
– Description: Tactical mastermind.
– Role: Coach of The Aquafury, providing strategic guidance.
– Personality: Tactical, resolute, and strategic.
– Relationships: Mentor to The Aquafury.
– Team: The Aquafury.
– Attributes: Tactical thinking, strategic planning, and resoluteness.
7. Luna:
– Description: An old woman with a deep connection to the ocean.
– Role: Guiding presence in Max’s life, providing wisdom and mystical aura.
– Personality: Wise, mystical, and connected to the sea.
– Relationships: Guiding presence in Max’s life.
– Attributes: Wisdom, mystical connection to the ocean, and guidance.
8. Malcolm “Wave Tyrant” Thompson:
– Description: Controlling boomer businessman.
– Role: Antagonist seeking to manipulate Surfball for personal gain.
– Personality: Controlling, manipulative, and greedy.
– Relationships: Antagonist of the story.
– Attributes: Manipulative schemes, greed, and desire for control.
Using the details above for Max, I asked ChatGPT to create a detailed background and family history for Max, Riley, Luna, and Malcolm while inputting a few specific details I wanted the story to contain. While we may not use every detail in the story – these details will help provide context for decisions we will make along the way.
Name: Max Evans Background and Family History:
Max Evans was born and raised in the coastal town of Crestwood, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant surf culture. He grew up with a deep love for the ocean, spending countless hours in the waves, honing his surfing skills from a young age. Max’s affinity for the water seemed to be ingrained in his very being, as if he had an innate connection with the sea.
Max’s family has a rich history of surfers, spanning several generations. His grandfather, Jake Evans, was a legendary surfer in his time, known for his fearless approach and innovative maneuvers. Jake’s passion for the sport was passed down to Max’s father, Tom Evans, who became a renowned surfboard shaper, crafting boards that were coveted by surfers around the world.
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in surfing, Max was surrounded by stories of legendary surfers and the tales of their triumphs and challenges. These stories fueled his own dreams and aspirations, inspiring him to push his limits and strive for greatness in the world of surfing.
Despite his natural talent and potential, Max’s journey in surfing wasn’t always smooth sailing. He faced setbacks and obstacles along the way, both in his personal life and within the competitive surfing community. Max’s rebellious spirit often clashed with the expectations and norms of the sport, causing friction with authority figures and fellow surfers. However, these challenges only served to fuel Max’s determination to break free from conventions and forge his own path.
Within his family, Max shares a close bond with his father, Tom. Their shared passion for surfing created a strong connection between them, and Tom became Max’s mentor and confidant. Tom recognized Max’s talent and supported his aspirations, providing guidance and encouragement throughout his journey. Their relationship was not without its conflicts, as they sometimes disagreed on the best approach to navigating the competitive world of surfing. However, their love for each other and their shared love for the sport ultimately brought them closer together.
Max also has a younger sister named Lily, who, although not as deeply involved in surfing as he is, remains a constant source of support and inspiration. Lily’s unwavering belief in Max’s abilities and her unwavering loyalty have been a source of strength for him during challenging times.
The Evans family history, passion for surfing, and the support and guidance Max received from his father and sister have shaped him into the determined and rebellious surfer he is today. Max’s journey in “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown” is not only about breaking barriers in the sport but also about discovering his own identity, embracing his true self, and preserving the authenticity and spirit of surfing.
Name: Riley
Background and Family History:
Riley was born and raised in the vibrant coastal town of Oceana Bay, known for its diverse surf culture and welcoming community. From a young age, Riley was drawn to the ocean and felt a deep connection with the waves. Their love for surfing was nurtured by their parents, Maria and David, who were avid surfers themselves.
Riley’s parents, both accomplished surfers, met while riding the waves and their shared passion for the sport formed the foundation of their relationship. Maria, a strong and fearless surfer, instilled in Riley a sense of confidence and encouraged them to chase their dreams without reservation. David, a compassionate and supportive father, shared his technical knowledge and expertise, teaching Riley the art of surfing and the importance of resilience and sportsmanship.
As Riley grew older, they discovered their own unique surfing style and began to explore their personal identity. It was during this self-discovery journey that Riley realized they were transgender. Although it presented challenges and uncertainties, Riley’s family stood by their side, offering unwavering love and support. Maria and David educated themselves on transgender issues, attended support groups, and became vocal advocates for transgender rights within their community.
Riley’s transition brought them closer to their true self and enhanced their passion for surfing. They found solace and freedom in the waves, where they could express themselves authentically and without judgment. Surfing became a means of self-expression, empowerment, and a way to inspire others who might be going through similar struggles.
Within the Surfball community, Riley faced both acceptance and prejudice. However, their talent and infectious passion for the sport quickly gained recognition and respect from their peers. Riley’s presence on The Stormriders team, alongside Max Evans, brought a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of inclusivity within the sport. Their journey became not only about winning championships but also about breaking barriers, fostering acceptance, and inspiring others to embrace their true selves.
Throughout their journey, Riley’s relationship with their family remained a pillar of strength. Maria and David continued to support Riley wholeheartedly, attending their competitions and cheering them on from the sidelines. Their family’s unconditional love and acceptance allowed Riley to thrive and become a positive force within the Surfball community.
Riley’s story in “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown” is one of resilience, self-discovery, and authenticity. They serve as an inspiration for others, reminding everyone that with love, acceptance, and determination, one can overcome any obstacle and find their place in the world. Riley’s journey not only shapes their own identity but also contributes to the broader movement of inclusivity and acceptance within the world of Surfball and beyond.
Name: Malcolm “Wave Tyrant” Thompson
Background and Family History:
Malcolm Thompson, better known as “Wave Tyrant,” is a controlling and manipulative boomer businessman who plays a significant role in the world of Surfball. Born into a wealthy family, Malcolm was raised with privilege and high expectations. His father, Richard Thompson, built a vast empire in the sports business industry, establishing a legacy that Malcolm was expected to uphold.
From a young age, Malcolm was groomed to take over his father’s business empire. He received the finest education, attending prestigious schools that shaped his business acumen and strategic thinking. However, Malcolm’s ambitions went beyond merely inheriting the family wealth. He craved power, control, and recognition, desiring to leave an indelible mark on the sports world.
Malcolm’s relationship with his father was complex. Richard was a shrewd and ruthless businessman, known for his cutthroat tactics and relentless pursuit of profits. Richard’s approach to business heavily influenced Malcolm, shaping him into a man who believed in exploiting every opportunity for personal gain, regardless of the consequences.
When Malcolm eventually took over the family business, he focused his attention on the emerging sport of Surfball. Recognizing its potential for profitability and public fascination, he saw an opportunity to mold the sport according to his own vision. Malcolm’s thirst for control and domination led him to manipulate players, coaches, and the sport’s governing bodies, seeking to bend Surfball to his will.
Driven by greed and a hunger for power, Malcolm employed various schemes to gain an upper hand in the sport. He used his vast resources to influence decisions, exploit loopholes, and push his own agenda, all in the pursuit of maximizing profits and consolidating his dominance over Surfball.
Malcolm’s actions earned him the moniker “Wave Tyrant” within the Surfball community. While he reveled in the fear and respect his name commanded, Malcolm’s approach faced resistance from players, coaches, and those who valued the purity and integrity of the sport. Many saw him as a threat to the authenticity and spirit of Surfball, and a symbol of corporate greed infiltrating the world of sports.
Beyond his business endeavors, Malcolm’s personal life remains shrouded in secrecy. He is known for his reclusive nature, rarely seen in public without a calculated purpose. It is rumored that he has a strained relationship with his family, as his insatiable hunger for power often took precedence over personal connections.
Malcolm’s character in “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown” serves as a formidable antagonist, pitting his manipulative schemes against the passion, resilience, and authenticity of the sport’s protagonists. His actions force Max Evans, Riley, and the entire Surfball community to confront the threats posed by his quest for control, leading to a high-stakes battle for the soul of Surfball.
Ultimately, Malcolm’s background and family history have shaped him into a calculating and influential figure who seeks to reshape Surfball according to his vision, leaving a lasting impact on the sport, its players, and the broader sports business landscape.
Name: Luna
History and Family Background:
Luna is a mystical and enigmatic character in “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown,” whose origins trace back to the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. Her connection to the ocean and her deep wisdom make her a guiding presence in the life of Max Evans and the Surfball community.
Luna was born and raised in the coastal Oahu town of Waimanalo, a place renowned for its stunning beaches, powerful waves, and vibrant surf culture. She grew up in a family deeply rooted in Hawaiian traditions and spirituality, where the ocean was not only a physical presence but also a sacred entity to be revered and respected.
Luna’s family lineage can be traced back to ancient Hawaiian ancestors who possessed a deep understanding of the natural elements and their connection to human existence. They were keepers of ancient knowledge, passing down wisdom, rituals, and traditions from one generation to the next.
In her youth, Luna’s insatiable curiosity and spiritual yearnings led her on a personal journey to explore the depths of Hawaiian spirituality and its connection to the ocean. It was during this time that she discovered her innate ability to communicate with the sea and tap into its powerful energy.
Luna’s encounters with legendary figures in Hawaiian surfing history, such as Duke Kahanamoku, played a significant role in shaping her understanding of the ocean’s sacredness and its connection to surfing. Duke, a revered Hawaiian athlete and surfer, became both a mentor and a source of inspiration for Luna. She learned from him the art of riding the waves, the importance of respect for nature, and the responsibility surfers have to preserve the purity of the sport.
Luna’s wisdom and connection with the natural elements earned her a reputation as a spiritual guide within the Hawaiian community. People sought her counsel, turning to her for insights and guidance in navigating life’s challenges. Luna’s teachings went beyond the physical aspects of surfing, encompassing a holistic approach that honored the harmony between mind, body, and spirit.
As time passed, Luna’s path led her to Crestwood, the setting of “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown.” Drawn by a sense of destiny and purpose, Luna arrived at the coastal town to fulfill her role in preserving the integrity and authenticity of Surfball. Her mystical connection to the ocean and her deep understanding of the sport’s origins made her an invaluable mentor to Max Evans and his teammates.
Luna’s presence and wisdom provided Max and his team with a deeper appreciation for the true essence of Surfball. She guided them in their personal growth, helping them navigate the challenges both on and off the waves. Luna’s teachings instilled in them a sense of respect for the sport, reminding them of the importance of staying true to themselves and the values that Surfball represents.
In “Wave Warriors: A Surfball Showdown,” Luna’s connection to Duke Kahanamoku and her Hawaiian heritage serve as a reminder of the deep roots and cultural significance of surfing. Her role as a spiritual guide and her ability to communicate with the sea add an element of mysticism and profound wisdom to the story, enriching the characters’ journeys and amplifying the overarching themes of authenticity and the preservation of the sport’s spirit.