Connect SillyTavern to an AI: Gemini, OpenRouter, Claude and DeepSeek
SillyTavern needs an AI model to reply. Connect a free Gemini key, or use OpenRouter for Claude, DeepSeek and more.
SillyTavern is where you chat. The replies come from an AI model, which you connect with an API key. Every option is set up in the same place: the plug icon (API Connections) in the top bar.
Gemini (free to start)
- Go to Google AI Studio, sign in, and click Create API key. Copy the key.
- In SillyTavern, click the plug icon.
- Set API to Chat Completion and Chat Completion Source to Google AI Studio.
- Paste the key and click Connect.
- Pick a Flash model. It's fast and has the most free use.
- Click Test Message. If you get a reply, you're done.
The free tier has daily and per-minute limits that Google changes now and then. You can check them on the Gemini rate limits page. Going over shows Too Many Requests; here's how to fix it.
OpenRouter (Claude, DeepSeek and more)
OpenRouter is one account and one balance for models from Anthropic, DeepSeek, Google and others. You can switch models any time, so it's the easiest way to use Claude or DeepSeek.
- Sign in at openrouter.ai, open Keys, and click Create Key.
- For paid models, add credit under Credits. Models whose names end in
:freework without credit, with daily limits. - In SillyTavern, open the plug icon, set Chat Completion Source to OpenRouter, paste the key, and click Connect. You can click Authorize to sign in with OpenRouter instead.
- Pick a model and click Test Message.
Which model?
Names and prices change often, so check OpenRouter's model list. Roughly:
| Model family | Good at | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Claude | Memory, steady characters, natural writing, strong Thai | Higher |
| DeepSeek | Detailed roleplay, good Thai | Low |
| Gemini | Speed, long chats | Low, or free with your own key |
:free models |
Trying things out | Free, daily limits |
Claude or DeepSeek directly
You can skip OpenRouter. Create a key in the Anthropic Console or on the DeepSeek Platform, then choose Claude or DeepSeek as the Chat Completion Source. It can be a little cheaper, but each provider needs its own balance.
Response settings
The sliders icon (AI Response Configuration) has two settings worth knowing:
- Context Size is how much of the chat the model reads each time. More remembers more, but costs more and hits limits sooner.
- Max Response Length caps each reply. About 2,000 tokens suits most roleplay.
The SillyTavern TH Discord shares presets for these that you can import from the same panel.
Next, set up your first chat. On Rolezy or Rolezy Plus, the steps are the same.