The Hologram Fortune Teller

As part of The Midnight Oil Club, a retro-futuristic arcade we created for LionTree’s 2022 retreat, the Fortune Teller stood out as a technical and creative triumph. The arcade itself blended over 100 years of entertainment history, featuring a mix of curated vintage machines and bespoke modern creations unified by a Blade Runner-inspired aesthetic. Among its many attractions, the Fortune Teller was the crown jewel, captivating audiences with its innovative use of holographic and interactive technologies.

The Fortune Teller was a live volumetric experience that achieved a groundbreaking milestone: the creation of a real-time holographic video display. Utilizing a live volumetric camera solution, we captured a performer’s likeness in real-time and overlaid it onto a Unity-based interactive framework. This enabled the performer to trigger animations, effects, and personalized interactions with guests approaching the booth.

The integration of technology didn’t stop there. The performer, equipped with a live feed of the arcade floor, could observe and communicate directly with guests, bringing an unparalleled level of interactivity to the experience. At the push of a button, the Fortune Teller could also print AI-generated fortunes, providing participants with a tangible and memorable keepsake from their encounter.

A standout favorite of the event, this project not only delighted guests but also marked an important chapter in the evolution of the volumetric technologies that have defined my career.