On 8-Bit Graphics

By Deane Barker • •
AI Summary

This post explores the author’s experience with outdated graphics on LinkedIn, emphasizing the challenges and inefficiencies caused by old design elements. The author reflects on the importance of modern visuals for effective online branding and engagement in professional networks.

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It occurred to me that someday people aren’t going to associate pixelated, 8-bit graphics as nostalgic, but just…odd.

People my age look at images like this and warmly remember marathon sessions of “Final Fantasy” on the NES. But we have a new generation that no longer has that context. They’ve never gotten absorbed by an isometric world that was both exciting yet non-threatening. It was just realistic enough to engage, but just artificial enough to stay fun.

There should be a word for the inevitable, generational slide of something from nostalgic memories to just confusion and a vague idea that it means something to older people. Pixel graphics are headed this way.

(The image is from the cover of “The Phoenix Project,” BTW.)

Update

Added on

I found this YouTube video which talks about the history of isometrics in gaming: The Beauty of Isometric Video Games.