Pixel Art Study of a 90's Anime Background

There is unquestionably something endearing and nostalgic about the simplicity of pixel art in today's fast-paced digital world, when high-definition and lifelike AAA game visuals rule the screens.

Pixel art transports me back to the early days of video games, distinguished by their blocky, pixelated look.

The last three months I replayed Zelda: Link's Awakening, 3 or 4 times :D

As a side project I thought to recreate an iconic Sailor Moon anime background still in a pixel art study and animate it a little bit for fun.

Pixel art is all about working with a limited palette on a small canvas.

With a reference image and canvas size decided on, I started sketching the basic layout of the background using simple shapes. This step helps establish the composition, perspective, and proportions of the scene accurately. Remember, pixel art relies on the precision of each pixel, so taking the time to refine the sketch will make the final result more impressive.

Blocking in the colors

Once the sketch is complete, it's time to block in the base colors. Pixel by pixel, carefully selecting the palette and placing colors that simplify but also match the reference image. This process requires patience.

After the main colors are in, I start coloring the lineart as well.

Since this was a still background, I subsequently made a very basic animation of trees and lights.

To be honest, I think I'll try a more simple study next :D this has taken more time than I thought it would and I wasn't ready for this.
Never the less it was a good experience 😌

Have you had an experience of taking on more than you could chew? Let me know in the comments.