pico_punk_generator_generator.p8 #126

Welcome to the ultimate pico_punk generator! This interactive token is a parameter based generator that creates unique pico_punk generators. Each one will generate one pico_punk with a number of layers chosen by you during the parameter selection phase. Additionally, you can use the buttons to navigate the generative space, and create your own pico_punks via an interactive process of discovery. This is the final pico_punk generator I intend to make, with the extra capabilities added by the parameter selection process, and the final tweaks and changes I made to the appearances and effects, I think this project is now as complete as I can ever make it.

The controls:

• arrow keys: move through the generative space... each step adds one layer to the composition
• x button: take a screenshot of the generated pico_punk
• o button: clear all layers except the current one (clean slate for building a new pico_punk)

Each layer has a chance to apply one of various visual effects, which vary in how transformative (or disruptive) they are.

pico_punks began as a project to create something akin to DOS Punks, but fully generative, without any manual intervention or pre-rendered components, using only the Pico-8 Fantasy Console. You can find the first generator here: (https://objkt.com/asset/hicetnunc/439049). In this early version, the generator was interactive, but each pico_punk was totally isolated, being generated from one unique seed and one consistent process. Over time, this evolved to this final experience: one in which the "curator", the user exploring the generator, is not just choosing from an infinite number of punks, but actually the process of exploration itself is modifying the output before your eyes.

pico_punks is all about exploring themes of irreversibility, noise, pattern recognition, pareidolia, and of course identity. What began for me as something bordering on satire, has become an integral part of how I represent myself online. It is my sincere wish that with these tools you are also able to create something unique that you feel represents you, and is something that couldn't have been made without you.

Thank you so much for these last couple years of support, and here's to many more making and collecting art together :)

Notes on minting:

• 30% of royalties go to the minter
• 10% of royalties go to previous curated pico_punk holders
• One reserve spot is generated for each curated pico_punk held, and they stack
• One extra reserve spot is for my Mom