Can anyone explain the background difference between sprites and AIs, other than game mechanics and the invocation of the mystical "Resonance"? They both seem to be electronic lifeforms of sentient code yet operate under completely different mechanics.

To give an example is that you as a user of the matrix are like Peter Pan, your sprite is Tinker Bell and the whole of Never Never Land is actually the AI.

two different x factors. one comes into existence from a human mind subconsciously playing around with code. the other comes into existence from code becoming able to self-code. or at least thats my take on it.

hell, now that im writing this, im starting to ponder the concept of multiple personalities. what if a sprite is a secondary personality given electronic form?

ugh, maybe i should not have read blindsight

Watts stories are a big source I <del>rip off</del> draw inspiration from when it comes to imagining net-critters and the wired (and un-wired) world in general. I still see the SR Matrix as the old sprawling Gibson experience of silver grids on infinite black and orange pyramids though, rather than the madhouse that Watts' Maelstrom is.