The Little History of Pixel Art: Retro vs Modern

A little dive into the world of Pixel Art, from Retro to Modernity.

Pixel art has always held a special place in the hearts of gamers. The simplicity and charm of these small, blocky graphics evoke feelings of nostalgia and remind us of a time when gaming was about imagination rather than ultra-realistic graphics. But, it’s important to note that not all pixels are created equal. There’s a clear distinction between the pixel art of yesteryear, that of the old Atari or NES, and the art we see in modern indie games (like Stardrew Valley). In this article, we delve into the enchanting world of retro pixel art and examine the crucial role that CRT televisions played in enhancing its unique features.

Pixel art, a true form of digital art, draws its magic from the use of individual pixels to form images. Its origins date back to the early days of video games, a time when the limited processing power of devices led to the use of simple, blocky graphics. Despite its apparent simplicity, pixel art has an undeniable charm that is difficult to replicate with modern technology. Pixel art’s intentional limitations, such as a limited color palette and low resolution, give it a unique aesthetic that has endured through the ages.

The Charm of CRT TVs

One of the key elements that contributed to the retro pixel art craze was the use of cathode ray tube (CRT) televisions. These box-shaped behemoths were commonplace during the era of classic game consoles. CRTs displayed images with a characteristic blur, adding a welcome softness to the pixels. This blurring effect softened the roughness of pixelated graphics, making them more pleasing to the eye.

Renaissance via Indie Games

Over the years, indie game developers have adopted the retro pixel art style to capture the nostalgia of classic games. However, there is still a misunderstanding among some developers as to what really makes retro pixel art special. Many modern indie games deliberately reproduce rough, low-quality pixel art, thinking they are faithfully recreating the look of old games. In reality, true retro pixel art was designed to look as good as possible within the limitations of the hardware of the time.

Recreating the Aesthetic of Retro Gaming

Thanks to advances in technology, it is now possible to recapture the aesthetic of retro pixel art. By understanding the intricacies of CRTs and how they impact the display of pixels, game developers can use filters or shaders to recreate this nostalgic effect. This allows for pixel art that captures the essence of the past while still being visually appealing on modern screens.

The Importance of Details in Pixel Art

One of the most striking differences between modern indie pixel art and retro pixel art is the level of detail. Classic pixel art games often featured intricate details that added depth and dimension to the graphics. From subtle lighting effects to small reflections and shadows, the artists behind retro pixel art mastered the art of maximizing the use of available pixels. In contrast, many modern indie games sacrifice detail for a more simplistic, "retro" look.

3D Games and CRT TVs

The impact of CRT televisions isn't limited to pixel art. Even polygon-based 3D games for CRTs were designed with their unique qualities in mind. The curved shape of CRT screens and the way they displayed images added a certain level of depth and realism to 3D graphics. This attention to detail is often missing from modern displays, resulting in a different visual experience when playing traditional 3D games.

The Magic of CRTs for Classic Games

The combination of retro pixel art and CRT televisions created a truly magical gaming experience for gamers. The smoothness of the pixels on a CRT screen, combined with the vibrant colors and scanlines, added a layer of authenticity and immersion to classic games. Playing these games on a modern screen may not provide the same feeling, as the sharpness of modern screens can sometimes make the pixel art appear harsh and blocky.

The Difference Between Modern and Retro Pixel Art

When comparing modern indie pixel art to its retro counterpart, it’s clear that there’s a stark difference in terms of quality and attention to detail. Retro pixel art was designed to look as good as possible within the limitations of the hardware, while modern indie games often aim for a deliberately rough and low-quality aesthetic. Understanding the history and techniques of retro pixel art can help game developers create more authentic and visually appealing experiences for players.

The beauty and charm of retro pixel art lies not only in the meticulous work of the artists, but also in the unique qualities of CRT televisions. The soft, blurry display of pixels on a CRT screen added a level of warmth and nostalgia that is difficult to replicate on modern displays. By understanding and embracing the elements that made retro pixel art special, game developers can create truly immersive and visually stunning experiences for gamers of all generations. You too, as a budding pixel artist, can easily dive into the fascinating world of retro pixel art and let your creativity run wild! Recreate your favorite video game characters and display them as mosaic art on your walls or as decorations for your gaming setup! And don’t forget to check out our collection of DIY mosaic kits, perfect for bringing your own pixel masterpieces to life.