Ah, the good old days! If you've recently noticed a surge in the popularity of retro video games, you're not alone. Like a comforting wave of nostalgia, it seems everyone’s diving back into the pixelated worlds of their youth. I confess, I caught the bug too. My kids started watching the new Super Mario Movie, I was transported back in time and needed to hunt down some old games. So, last month, I went on a spree, hunting down my beloved childhood classics: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3, Bart’s Nightmare, Ken Griffey Jr Baseball, and of course Mario Kart for the kiddos!

However, this isn't just a trip down memory lane for gamers. As a graphic designer, I've witnessed an interesting twist: the retro gaming resurgence has found its way into the forefront of contemporary design aesthetics. Lately, there’s been a palpable shift towards lo-fi and pixel-based design styles, gracing everything from big brands and websites to eclectic projects.

So, Why the Retro Rage in Design?

Nostalgia as a Powerful Marketing Tool: There's an inherent warmth and comfort in revisiting our past. It reminds us of simpler times. From a marketing perspective, invoking nostalgia can be a powerful strategy. When consumers have warm memories associated with a brand or product, they’re more likely to engage with it.

Bold and Iconic Colours: Think back to the games of the 80s and 90s. They weren't just distinguished by their pixelated graphics, but also their bold colour palettes. Bright reds, dazzling blues, and electric yellows weren't just a design choice; they were necessary because of the limited colour capabilities of early gaming systems and televisions. Today, these shades are on-trend, making everything they touch pop and captivate.

Simplicity is King: In our fast-paced digital age, there's an increasing appreciation for designs that are direct and uncluttered. The pixel and lo-fi aesthetics inherently embody simplicity. They are straightforward, and their geometrical patterns provide a clean visual structure that resonates with audiences.

As we merge the past with the present, it’s evident that the love for retro gaming is more than just a fleeting fancy. It’s a reflection of our yearning for the familiar, coupled with an appreciation for designs that stood the test of time. For me, as a designer, it’s a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the power of colours. These lessons from the past serve as guiding stars for creating designs that not only captivate but also connect.

Why does this matter? Well these design trends bridge the gap between eras, proving that good design, like our favourite video games, never really goes out of style.

And just a little sidebar for my fellow Saskatonians looking to embark on their retro gaming journey: we're incredibly lucky! Check out places like Next Level Gaming, Figure Four Toys & Games, and High Tec Gametraders (Message me if you know of others! I'll add to the list). They're your gateway to pixelated paradise. Happy gaming and designing!