Video game graphics have evolved so much over the years but pixel games are still hugely popular. Perhaps it’s nostalgia for those care-free years and good times at the arcade. Or it’s that often games with simpler graphic styles place more emphasis on story and gameplay. Games like Harvest Moon, or Stardew Valley more recently offer a rich but relaxing experience. Below is some pixel art inspiration by different games and creators out there on world wide creative web. It will be an evolving post with more art and resource links over time.
1. Evangelion RPG mock up – Brandon James Greer
If you loved Evangelion: Neon Genesis, then you’ll love this pixel art RPG mockup of a scene from the first episode by Brandon James Greer. Also check out his process in the video below.
Follow Brandon and his awesome pixel art over on Instagram.
2. Demon Apes and adventurers by Wolfenoctis
If you enjoyed those old school games of Golden Axe and Primal Rage, then you’ll definitely dig this. South African pixel artist, Ben Adendorff or Wolfenoctis, has been sharing a series of pixel cats, adventurers and demon apes on his Twitter page. He’s also currently working on the action platformer game Steel Assault.
Be sure to check out more of Ben’s work on Artstation.
3. Sky Life by Slynard
Pixel artist, Raymond Schlitter, aka. Slynard, has created some awesome sky life scenes to inspire and transport you. He’s the co-creator of Hyper Echalon game which is available on the Nintendo Switch and Steam. Be sure to check out his YouTube channel to see the process behind these awesome pixel artworks.
A Nintendo Switch by DaaWeeD
Why not do pixel art of your favorite consoles. DaaWeeD puts together a little scene here with the Nintendo Switch.
Okee_Art – Mark Brosalin
Mark Broslain has created a pretty awesome set of pixel poker death cards which are available to order. You can view the deck over on his Behance portfolio.
See more of Mark’s pixel art on his Behance portfolio for some inspiration.
Evsailey’s Apple Tree
These intricate botanicals by artist, Evsailey, would make for awesome prints in your studio to bring a little pixel magic inside.
Thomas Feichtmeir’s trees
Austrian pixel artist, Thomas Feichtmeir created a bunch of cool trees for Songs Of Conquest. He’s also worked on Gestald: Cinder and Steam, Blashphemous, and Fantastic Fetus.
Follow Thomas on Instagram.
Want to create your own pixel art?
If this dose of pixel art inspiration has got you in the mood to make some of your own, there are a few different apps to try.
For Android and iPad, Pixel Studio is a free and easy-to-use app to get started with. You can even animate your creations. There are some ads here and there, but you can avoid those by purchasing the pro version.
For animating sprites and making pixel art on computer, you’ll want to grab Aseprite for $20. There is a free trial version but the trade-off is that you won’t be able to save any of your work.
If you’re just getting started with digital art then be sure to check out our beginners guide.
