Nostalgia has a certain hold on us. Whether it’s the pictures we take with polaroid cameras or the vinyl we listen to for that satisfying click and whir, these things from the past have their charm—and 8-bit is among these timeless treasures.
It’s 2023; we have hi-tech computers, AI-generated images, and an all-too-real resolution on our screens, and yet we can’t deny that we still enjoy seeing the blocky aesthetic of 8-bit.
What is 8-bit?
In graphics, 8-bit is a pixel’s capacity to use only 8 bits of storage for containing 256 possible display colors. This entails arranging pixels to form believable images using limited palettes and low resolutions.
While 8-bit takes us back in time, our use of it today is not just a retro reminder but a mark of modernity. From the arcade era of the 70s and 80s—hitting the start button on classics like Pac-Man and Tetris—to the pixel art stickers and emojis of today, 8-bit is here to stay even in the current rise of online modes.
Using the latest techs, 8-bit is no longer contained to a few hundred colors and reduced details. This allows developers to explore new styles in gameplay, design, animation, and beyond.
Indeed, 8-bit has turned into a much-loved art that comes in every form, as the following examples of 8-bit trends will show.
Super Mario Lofi by Pixel Jeff (@pixeljeff_design)
Created by Pixel Jeff for National Mario Day, this animation is not just a tribute to our all-time favorite retro game but a little pocket world for Mario and his friends.
Whether it’s Mario peacefully typing away or the landscapes waiting outside windows in other artworks, Pixel Jeff captures daily moments and pop culture references into a cozy 8-bit world with animations that make images come to life.
Check out more chill aesthetics perfect for lo-fi nights by following Pixel Jeff on Behance, DeviantArt, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Where better to experience 8-bit than in games? The visuals, animations, and music come together to make an iconic experience.
In Undertale, the 8-bit graphics are nothing short of dynamic as you immerse yourself into a 2D role-playing game following a human who falls to a world of monsters, mischief, and misadventures.
The developer, Toby Fox, emphasizes the fun twist that sets the game apart from others: in-game, it is up to you if you want to spare your enemies, flee, destroy them, or find more creative ways of defeating them: laugh at a joke, give a compliment, hug a monster.
Either way, you must find your way through the underground labyrinth of monsters.
Up for the challenge? Try Undertale now on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.
Adcel Villanueva (@adroitcell.pxl)
An architecture graduate hailing from Manila, Adcel Villanueva—or AdroitCell—builds 8-bit scenes grounded on his love for pixel art games, native cultures, and famous shows.
From depicting everyday local elements—like the LRT station, a sorbetes cart, the Philippine Peso—to showcasing unique Filipino architectural styles constructed in 8-bit, Adcel makes sure to pay homage to the Filipino identity, inspiring an appreciation for our heritage and indigenous cultures.
Support Adcel’s art on Behance, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
8-bit Misfits offers us something a little different as we dive deeper into the funky world of 8-bit. The musical artist turns favorite tunes into catchy 8-bit renditions reminiscent of synth-pop.
On their roster, they have 80s and 90s classics like The Beatles, Queen, AC/DC, and Bob Marley; Disney and anime songs taking us back to our childhood; and retro versions of our modern favorites like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, BTS, and Coldplay.
Hit the play button on these chiptunes on Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and other streaming sites.
Alwa’s Awakening by Elden Pixels
Puzzles and mystical encounters—these are the two things that describe Alwa’s Awakening, an adventure platform game developed by Elden Pixels.
With nothing but a magical staff, a maze of challenges, and a sense of adventure to guide you, you can freely explore the land of Alwa as you go about Zoe’s mission of bringing peace to its realm—all in iconic 8-bit fashion.
Set out on your own quest in Alwa’s Awakening, available in your favorite gaming platforms.
Welcome to the world of 8-bit! These bits of nostalgia are here to stay whenever you’re in the mood for some retro fun.
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