Hi everyone,
I’m building two projects to help the poker community:
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AggroFish Analyzer (Firebase + Vertex AI app): players can input their hands and get AI-powered GTO & exploitative analysis. They can also save hands by date, download PDF reviews, and track their learning progress.
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A mindset-focused website: a space for poker players (especially over 40 and beginners) to learn stoicism, discipline, and mindset tools. On this site, I want to include an “Ask the Advisor” app, where people can ask questions about strategy, mindset, and improvement and get helpful answers powered by AI.
I started this journey with zero coding experience. I’m not a professional developer, but I’ve been learning step by step using trial and error, tutorials, ChatGPT, and Gemini. My dream is to give players who don’t have money for expensive coaches a way to improve both their technical skills and mindset for free or at a very low cost.
The problem: in September, I accidentally generated a very high bill (~$2,000+) from Vertex AI because of repeated Cloud Run requests to Gemini 2.5 Pro. I’ve since removed the triggers and I’m working with billing support, but now I’m honestly scared to keep working. I want to build the “Ask the Advisor” app, but I’m afraid of testing it and being charged a lot again.
My questions:
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How can I test safely in Firebase/Vertex without risking huge charges again?
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Is there a way to simulate AI responses locally or run a cheaper “dev mode” until I’m ready for production?
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What quotas or budgets should I set to stop runaway charges?
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What’s the best way for a solo learner like me to control costs but still make progress?
This project means a lot to me. Before, I was only writing quotes, but now I’m building something real. I don’t want to give up or let my projects die — I just need to learn how to build in a safe way.
Thanks in advance for any advice 
— Victor