Cifer's TamaFi Is an Espressif ESP32-U4-Powered Homage to the Tamagotchi — and Eats Wi-Fi

Pseudonymous maker "Cifer" has designed a modernized take on the classic Tamagotchi virtual pet concept, the TamaFi — an Espressif ESP32-U4-powered handheld pet you "feed" by scanning for Wi-Fi networks.

"TamaFi is a modern twist on the nostalgic virtual pets of the '90s, blending retro vibes with cutting-edge technology," Cifer explains of their creation. "Powered by an ESP32 microcontroller, TamaFi features a vibrant TFT LCD, interactive animations, and a unique Wi-Fi-based feeding system. It’s an open-source project designed for makers and enthusiasts to build, customize, and expand."

The original Tamagotchi was released in 1996, and rapidly became the must-have toy of the 90s: a keychain gadget with just three buttons on which a virtual pet would be born, live, and — if you didn't keep it entertained in simple games, fed, and clean up its waste — die on a simple liquid-crystal display. Later models added more advanced features, including color displays and even internet connectivity — but the TamaFi goes still further.

Built around the Espressif ESP32-U4 microcontroller, Cifer's TamaFi includes an ST7789-based color TFT display, an addressable RGB LED, piezoelectric buzzer, and a battery charged over USB Type-C. Pets — taking their inspiration from Pokémon, rather than the simpler designs of Tamagotchi characters themselves — hatch on the device, can be played with, and need to be fed.

It's the latter feature where the TamaFi stands out: building on earlier projects like Simone Margaritelli's Pwnagotchi, the pets are fed by scanning for nearby wireless networks using the ESP32-U4's integrated Wi-Fi radio. The more networks you find, the better-fed the pet will be — and if you're in a network not-spot, it's time to go on a hike before your pet's hunger becomes a problem.

Cifer has documented the project here on Hackster.io, with source code and PCB design files available on GitHub under the permissive MIT license. "It's an open-source project," Cifer explains, "designed for makers and enthusiasts to build, customize, and expand. TamaFi is more than a finished product; it’s a platform for creativity."