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The Best 2D Art Styles for Games

Posted on by itcodex itcodex

Visual style is one of the most important elements that determines players’ first impression of a video game and impacts their gameplay experience.

In the world of 2D graphics, many unique artistic approaches exist. Each type of art can drastically impact the perception of a game: pixel art gives the game world a certain mood, while a monochromatic palette creates a totally different one.

In this article, we’ll give a detailed breakdown of the most popular and intriguing 2D art styles, with examples of games made in these styles, and explain the advantages of each style. 

Pixel art

Pixel art is a classic 2D style that evokes nostalgia for video games from the 1980s and 90s. Every visual element is created from clear square pixels, creating a unique, recognizable 2D look. 

In this style of 2D art, the image is created using separate pixels (the smallest units of an image), each of which is only one color. This technique characterizes early video games when technology was limited by low resolution and small memory capacity. Graphics were created by hand, pixel by pixel, giving the games a unique artistic feel.

Examples of games in this style:

  • Stardew Valley: in this popular 2D indie farming simulator game, players inherit an old family farm and revive it, taking up farming, raising livestock, fishing, crafting, and exploring the world.

Stardew Valley. Source 

  • Undertale: a 2D RPG with unique mechanics, where players control a child who has entered an underground world of monsters.

Undertale. Source 

Advantages of this art style:

  • Ease of development. For artists with less experience, 2D pixel art is a good place to start, since creating sprites takes less time than realistic high-poly 3D models.
  • Low system requirements. Pixel art requires less computing power than realistic 3D graphics, meaning players can run these games even on weak devices.
  • Simplicity. The minimalism of pixel art makes gameplay easier to understand—the focus stays on the mechanics, not realism.
  • A vibrant, nostalgic style. This 2D art style evokes nostalgia in players who grew up with 8- and 16-bit consoles. Many modern indie projects use pixel art as a tribute to the early days of the video game industry.

Raster art

In raster art, the image consists of tiny dots (pixels) of different colors. While similar to pixel art, this 2D style has smoother edges and details.

In raster art, the image comprises many pixels, each containing color information. Unlike vector art (which we’ll discuss a bit later), raster images have a fixed resolution, and their quality may get worse if you enlarge them.

Raster art is widely used in video games, thanks to its ability to convey complex detailed images, textures, and color gradients. It’s helpful when creating both realistic 2D images and stylized visual effects.

Examples of a hand-drawn style in raster art:

  • Cuphead (2017): a 2D game inspired by cartoons from the 1930s with hand-drawn graphics.

Cuphead. Source 

  • Rayman Legends (2013): a 2D platformer game with beautiful, detailed raster art.

Rayman Legends. Source 

Examples of photorealism in raster art:

  • The Last of Us Part II (2020): this game uses 2D raster textures to create a realistic world with detailed landscapes and characters.

The Last of Us Part II. Source 

  • Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018): an enormous open world with realistic raster textures.

Red Dead Redemption 2. Source 

An example of combining both styles—Hollow Knight (2017): a 2D platformer that uses raster backgrounds and sprites to create a grim fantasy world.

Hollow Knight. Source 

Advantages of raster art:

  • High level of detail. Raster art can depict detailed textures like skin, fur, fabric, and surfaces, creating realistic or stylized images.
  • Compatibility with modern technology. Raster textures are used in 3D graphics for wrapping models (texturing), which adds color and depth.
  • Realism and atmosphere. Raster images allow you to convey complex visual effects like fog, smoke, and reflections, creating a cinematic gameplay experience.
  • Integration with other styles. Raster art easily combines with other styles. For example, you can use raster backgrounds in a 2D pixel or vector game.

Isometric art

Isometric art uses 2D images to create the illusion of 3D space and depth. The key feature of this art style is the use of isometric projection: all three axes (X, Y, Z) are shown at a 120-degree angle to each other, and parallel lines remain parallel, preventing any perspective distortions. This gives the image a “cubist” look and allows you to convey depth within the limits of 2D art.

This art style gained popularity in the 1990s thanks to 2D strategy games and RPGs like SimCity 2000, Diablo, and Baldur’s Gate.

Classic examples of this type of game:

  • Diablo (1996): a gothic action RPG with an isometric camera.

Diablo. Source 

  • Fallout 1 and 2 (1997–1998): RPGs with an isometric view and a focus on tactical gameplay.

Fallout. Source 

Modern examples:

  • Hades (2020): a vibrant 2D action RPG with isometric art and dynamic gameplay.

Hades. Source 

  • Monument Valley (2014): a puzzle game that uses isometric optical illusions.

Monument Valley. Source 

Advantages:

  • Creating depth without 3D graphics. Although isometric art only uses 2D images, it creates the feeling of 3D space and depth, making your game more visually complex without a full conversion to 3D.
  • Convenience for strategy games and city-builders. Isometric perspective provides a convenient “bird’s eye view” of the game field. This is particularly important in the strategy, simulator, and tactical genres, where players manage a large number of objects in the game world.
  • Artistic expressiveness. The geometric precision and symmetry of isometric art create a unique, stylish gameplay experience. For example, in games like Monument Valley or Bastion, isometry forms the basis of the overall art design.

Bastion. Source 

  • Resource optimization. Compared to full 3D, isometric art uses fewer resources, since the environments and characters are created as flat sprites, not detailed 3D models.

Vector art

Vector art is based on mathematical formulas and can scale up endlessly without sacrificing quality. The lines are clean and precise, with smooth transitions.

Vector art uses mathematical formulas to describe lines, curves, polygons, and other geometric figures. Unlike raster art (based on pixels), vector art scales up without any loss of quality. It is particularly suitable for 2D games with clean, minimalist, and vibrant visual elements.

Vector art is often used when creating contours, smooth animations, and an abstract feel. 

Classic examples:

  • Asteroids (1979): a 2D arcade game with minimalist black-and-white graphics. One of the first projects to use vector art.

Asteroids. Source 

  • Battlezone (1980): an early example of a 3D game built using vector art.

Battlezone. Source 

Modern examples:

  • Geometry Wars (2003–2018): an arcade shooter game with an abstract aesthetic and vibrant colors.

Geometry Wars. Source 

  • Line Rider (2006): a physical puzzle game where vector lines create roads for the character.

Line Rider. Source 

Advantages of this art style:

  • Well-defined lines. This art style is perfect for 2D games that focus on abstract designs or simplicity.
  • Ease of development. Using vector graphic software (such as Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape) makes creating or editing in-game elements easier.
  • Ease of animation. Vector elements are easy to animate using transformations (turns, scaling, movement), which lets you create dynamic visual effects.
  • Scalability. Vector elements retain their clarity and quality even if you shrink or enlarge them to any size. This is particularly important for modern games that support a range of screen resolutions.

Flat graphics

Flat design in game art uses minimalism, simple shapes, and vibrant, solid colors with no detailed gradients, textures, or 3D elements. It emphasizes simplicity and functionality. Flat graphics are widely used in the 2D mobile and casual genres, as they are easy to create and understand.

This style gained popularity in the 2010s, thanks to its use in interfaces (such as iOS 7 and Google Material Design) and an overall trend towards minimalism in design.

Casual games:

  • Angry Birds (2009): this 2D game uses vibrant colors and minimalist shapes to create funny characters.
  • Cut the Rope (2010): a 2D puzzle game with flat yet expressive visual elements.

Cut the Rope. Source 

Arcade and puzzle games:

  • Mini Metro (2015): a 2D strategy puzzle game that uses lines and patterns in the style of a metro map.

Mini Metro. Source 

Advantages:

  • Simplicity. Minimalist shapes make it easy to tell apart the game interface and elements. This is crucial for video games with lots of movement or for players who prefer intuitive design.
  • Modern design. Flat graphics always look fresh and modern, providing a gameplay experience that suits a wide audience.
  • Ease and speed of development. It’s easier for artists to make elements in this style since it doesn’t require high levels of detail or creating depth. Since there are no complex textures or effects, flat graphics use less computing power and take up less space.
  • Suitable for different platforms. Flat graphics look good on screens of any size, from smartphones to large monitors.

Hand-drawn art

This art style imitates animation and drawing done by hand. Every frame looks like a hand-made illustration.

In this style, game elements are made by imitating traditional art techniques like watercolor, pencil sketches, gouache, or oil paint. Hand-drawn art creates a “living” and artistic world for a game, as if players are interacting with a work of art.

This style is popular among indie developers and is used in games that emphasize emotional depth, a unique world, or a focus on story. 

Examples of “hand-drawn” images and illustrations:

  • Child of Light (2014): a game with 2D watercolor art that creates a fairy-tale world.

Child of Light. Source 

  • Gris (2018): a platformer game with detailed 2D visuals that resemble watercolor paintings.

Gris. Source 

An example featuring traditional cultural elements—Okami (2006). The art in this video game is inspired by traditional Japanese painting. 

Okami. Source 

The Banner Saga (2014–2018): this game is an example of a combination of hand-drawn art and animation, inspired by Disney cartoons.

The Banner Saga. Source 

Advantages:

  • Unique aesthetics. Every hand-drawn game looks unique since it reflects the individual styles of the artist or team.
  • Alignment with the plot. In these games, the visual style often complements the plot and world, becoming an important part of the narrative experience.
  • Longevity. Unlike realistic graphics, which become outdated as technology progresses, a unique art style helps hand-drawn games provide a timeless experience.
  • Genre flexibility. Hand-drawn art is used in 2D platformers, quests, RPGs, and even strategy games.

Monochromatic art

The use of one color or a very limited color palette creates a unique atmosphere that emphasizes shape and composition.

The palette in games of this type often consists of just one color and its shades or two contrasting colors (like black and white). This approach puts the focus on contrast and shape, not complex textures or rich detail.

Monochromatic art is often associated with minimalism and a stylized look, creating expressive and memorable images. It can be used for artistic effect or as a way to convey atmosphere or depth of emotions.

Examples of games with a black-and-white palette:

  • Limbo (2010): a grim 2D platformer that relies on light and shadow to create an atmosphere of horror.

Limbo. Source 

  • Return of the Obra Dinn (2018): a 2D detective game with black-and-white pixel art that resembles old computer screens.

Return of the Obra Dinn. Source 

Examples of using shades of one color:

  • Hyper Light Drifter (2016): a minimalist art style with predominantly vibrant colors.

Hyper Light Drifter. Source 

  • Monochroma (2014): a 2D game that mainly features shades of gray with rare splashes of red to up the drama.

Monochroma. Source 

Advantages of using monochrome:

  • Simplicity and style. The look of these video games sets them apart, and the unconventional art choice attracts attention.
  • Atmosphere. Using a limited color palette helps in creating emotional depth and conveying concepts like gloom, mystery, and calmness.
  • Ease of development. Creating complex textures and layered palettes takes less time in a monochromatic art style.

How to choose a 2D art style for your game

  • Decide on the project goals

All styles suit a range of uses, so it’s important to understand what your goals for your game are:

  • If you want to emphasize nostalgia and classic gameplay mechanics, consider pixel art.
  • Flat art helps create a minimalist and modern gameplay experience.
  1. Consider the game genre

Some styles work more successfully with certain genres:

  • Monochromatic art is a great choice for creating 2D platformers or indie projects that focus on the atmosphere.
  • Isometric graphics are a perfect fit for gameplay in strategy games and RPGs.
  1. Evaluate your resources

The choice of style depends on your available budget, team, and time:

  • If you have a small team or limited resources, focus on a style that’s simple to implement, like vector or flat graphics.
  • For larger projects with good financing, you can consider creating detailed hand-drawn art, which takes more time and talent.
  1. Consider the platform
  • For mobile games, a style that looks good on small screens will work best: flat, vector, or pixel art.
  • Games on PC or consoles allow you to experiment with more detailed styles, like hand-drawn art.
  1. Know your audience

Figure out who’s going to play your game:

  • A young audience responds better to styles inspired by cartoons, like flat or hand-drawn art.
  • Fans of retro gaming will appreciate pixel art.

Conclusions

Every type of 2D art has unique advantages and can be an excellent choice, depending on the concept of your game. What matters is finding the type of art that best conveys the atmosphere and idea of your game world.

Experiment, study different approaches, and don’t be afraid to make your own unique visual decisions!