Arcade-Sized, AI-Powered Fortune Teller Spooks Users with Lovecraftian Horoscopes
A Raspberry Pi Zero W, old Game Boy components, and the power of AI have come together to create an extraordinary fortune telling experience. Meet The Oracle, a fully functional arcade cabinet-sized fortune telling machine that will send shivers down your spine. Built by Evan Holbert over a period of three months, the machine is not only coin-operated but also features a thermal printer that churns out your customized fortune.
To get your fortune, all you have to do is insert a coin and enter your date of birth on the keypad. The Raspberry Pi then calculates your zodiac sign and consults ChatGPT, an AI language model, to generate a horoscope tailored to you. But here’s where it gets really spooky: before the fortune is printed, a custom Game Boy ROM performs a divination, adding an extra layer of mystique to the whole experience.
If the concept reminds you of Zoltar from the movie Big, you’re not alone. Zoltar, despite being a fictional character, has left a lasting impression on many with its eeriness. However, this modern-day version takes it to a whole new level by incorporating AI. With ChatGPT’s ability to mimic the writing styles of HP Lovecraft and Dr. Seuss, the predictions can be chillingly poetic.
We tested a similar query using Bing AI powered by ChatGPT and were intrigued by the response. In the style of Lovecraft and Seuss, the AI-generated fortune ventured into the realm of shadows and hinted at ancient horrors lurking in the depths of one’s mind. It certainly gave us goosebumps!
But what if you’re eager to build your own uncanny fortune telling device? Well, you’re in luck because the project is open source. Evan Holbert has kindly shared all the intricate details, making it accessible to modding enthusiasts. For those less technically inclined, it’s still fascinating to delve into the project’s inner workings and appreciate the craftsmanship involved.
While Raspberry Pi sales may have experienced a slump during the pandemic, the interest in these compact and versatile computer boards has been steadily rising again in 2023. With a range of models to choose from, Raspberry Pi continues to captivate makers and inventors with its endless possibilities.
If you’re itching to uncover your Lovecraftian horoscope or embrace the whimsy of a Dr. Seuss-inspired prediction, The Oracle is the ultimate fortune telling machine. Its marriage of retro gaming components, AI-driven insights, and chillingly poetic horoscopes will leave you mystified and perhaps a little spooked. So, go ahead, take a coin to the arcade-sized oracle and prepare for a fortune like no other.
