Show HN: I built a free AI jigsaw puzzle generator, solve puzzles, earn credits
by AlisonLisa | 2025-06-24 16:31:10+00:00
TL;DR: I built a puzzle platform that secretly gives you free access to all mainstream AI art models (GPT-4o, Flux, Stable Diffusion, Google Imagen 4+). Users think they're just playing puzzles, but they're actually getting unlimited AI image generation by earning credits through gameplay. No need to pay, no generation limits.

I built JigsawCat (https://jigsawcat.ai) after getting frustrated with expensive AI art subscriptions. Midjourney costs $10-60/month, GPT-4o requires ChatGPT Plus at $20/month, and most platforms have strict daily limits. Meanwhile, I loved solving jigsaw puzzles but got bored with the same recycled stock photos on every platform.

So I had this idea: what if I could combine these two needs? Instead of building another AI art platform with subscription barriers, I created a jigsaw puzzle game where solving puzzles earns you credits to generate new AI artwork.

Here's how it works: You solve AI-generated puzzles, earn free credits through gameplay, then use those credits to access ALL mainstream AI models - Google Imagen 4, Flux1, Stable Diffusion, GPT-4o, and other cutting-edge models. It's like getting $300+/month worth of AI tools completely free through gameplay.

The twist is that users think they're just playing puzzles, but they're actually getting unlimited AI image generation. Every puzzle completion gets you closer to your next AI creation - it's basically a "mystery box" experience for AI art.

Key features: 1. Play-to-earn system: Complete puzzles to earn credits for AI generation 2. Access to all major AI models without subscriptions 3. Global leaderboards with dual ranking systems (first completion + best records) 4. Three unique hint modes: clear image + prompt, blurred image + prompt, or prompt-only 5. Embeddable puzzles with customizable user profiles (great for streamers/educators) 6. Gaming without registration, mobile-optimized

What surprised me most was the unexpected use cases that emerged: 1. Content creators live-stream puzzle generation and solving for audience engagement 2. Teachers create educational puzzles (historical scenes, scientific concepts) without paying for AI subscriptions 3. Families generate personalized puzzles of pets, memories, or favorite characters 4. Artists use it as a free concept generation tool

The economics work because most users prefer earning credits through gameplay over paying. This creates an engaged community while premium users fund the infrastructure. Most of users earn enough credits to never need payment, but the platform remains sustainable.

I optimized for engagement and accessibility rather than revenue per user. By hiding AI generation behind puzzle gameplay, there's a lower barrier to entry, natural learning curve, and viral mechanics through shareable puzzles.

The platform proves you can build sustainable businesses around AI democratization. Instead of restricting access, create engaging ways for users to "earn" premium features.

Try it at jigsawcat.ai - no signup required to start playing. Happy to discuss the technical architecture, business model, or growth strategies in the comments!