The golden age of 8-bit graphics was ushered in with the likes of the NES and the Sega Master System. So many incredible games were made with such rudimentary graphics.
The graphics in games today have progressed to the point of realism, but nothing can replace the nostalgia we have for those early, pixilated adventures. I know I’m not the only one that feels this way, by the volume of 8-bit art out there. And none of it is the same. 8-bits have been re-imagined into paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and clothes. Old skool never looked so cutting edge.
Does New York City always have to be cooler than everywhere else? Thanks to Kelly Goeller, one half of the animation studio Kneeon, the street installation above makes even the drain pipes in NY look awesome.
You’ll never worry about running out of hearts on your next adventure with this pixel heart necklace by SketchyStories. It’s made of solid sterling silver and the surface is faceted to emulated that 8-bit look.
Continue reading for the full gallery of 8-bit awesomeness!
This illustration was created by Jude Buffum. His gallery contains other pixellated works including Ghostbusters, The Big Lebowski, Zelda, Mario Bros, and more. You can also buy giclee prints of his art (although this image of Milton and his red stapler is sold out.)
This detailed portrait of Goten and Trunks sparring was creating by Basement Dweller Geek Mythology using perler beads.
This incredible paper Mario (not to be confused with the *other* Paper Mario) was designed and created by squeezycheesecake. You too can make your own 3D sprite using your printer, some paper, scissors and glue. You can download this and many other gamer papercrafts for free from Nintendo Papercraft.
Ever wonder what your favorite modern games would look like as low res side scroller? Me neither, but artist jnkboy did, and the results are awesome! This pixelated Halo rendition was made in Photoshop and looks good enough to play. You can find more of his 8-bit and video game inspired artwork in his DeviantART gallery.
And if you want to live out an old skool fantasy, look no further than this Question Block Lamp by 8BitLit, not only does it light up when touched, it makes a coin noise, and after every 8 touches, you get a 1-UP! Just don’t punch it too hard…
Still need more epic 8-bit art? Check out the Etsy treasury below!
![]() Starter Pokemon Evo… $10.00
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![]() 8 Bit Tie $11.00
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![]() 8-Bit Sonic the Hed… $75.00
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![]() Mega Man bracelet $19.95
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![]() Red Mage, Warriors … $25.00
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![]() Samus Aran from Met… $40.00
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![]() Tiny Mario Long Lap… $80.00
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![]() 8 Bit heart pasties $11.00
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I think I would be better at the 8-bit Halo…sadly. (unless you couldn’t save!)
I NEED THAT LAMP