There’s something about 8-bit graphics that just feels right. They’re simple, but effective, and they always look great. So when I found this tutorial on how to create 8-bit style graphics with authentic NES, Gameboy, and Sega colors, I had to give it a try! First, you’ll need some supplies. You’ll need an NES or Gameboy (or a Sega Genesis), a piece of paper or cardboard, some pencils or crayons, and some paint or markers. Next, you’ll need to create your graphics. Start by drawing a basic outline of your image on the paper or cardboard. Then use your pencil to add in any details you want: eyes, mouths, hair… anything you want! Once you’ve got everything looking good, it’s time to start painting! To paint each color using the NES/Gameboy/Sega Genesis colors palette (or any other color palette if you don’t have those), start by painting the bottom half of your image first. Then use your crayons or pencils to add in any highlights and shadows that you want. Finally, add in any other details that are necessary for each color: eyes for blue/green; mouth for red/orange; hair for yellow/green. Once all of your graphics are painted correctly (and if there are any mistakes!), it’s time to put them all together! Now that you’ve created 8-bit style graphics with authentic NES/Gameboy/Sega Genesis colors, let’s see them in action!
While making any image into an 8-Bit style graphic can be a lot of fun, it’s surprisingly easy to go the extra mile and use authentic palettes of popular retro gaming systems like the Gameboy, NES, or Sega Master system.
All you have to do is fire up nearly any version of Photoshop and download a few files to make the process quick and easy. Keep reading.
My first How-to on creating 8-Bit graphics is still available, and shows the process in greater depth. If you still remember the steps from before, you’ll be okay without rereading it and just grabbing a few images you find interesting. Again, iconic images with good contrast can be very helpful to creating a better final product.
Once you have your image, simply head to Image > Mode > Indexed Color as before. Instead of using any of the other options on the “Palette” pulldown menu, we want to use “Custom.”
This loads up the Color Table for your image. It has generated one automatically, but we have no interest in that right now. Click the “Load…” button.
You’ll get a browser window looking for a color table file. I’ve created three color tables for How-To Geek readers to experiment with, so download them and plug them in at this step. They’re available in a ZIP package. My favorite is the “Gameboy” palette.
The “Gameboy” color table has loaded up nicely. Hit OK to begin rendering your image in glorious shades of green.
I’ve been setting my Dither amount lower lately, and also using “Preserve Exact Colors.” Experiment with your settings to find your favorites, or simply use the ones shown here.
We’re off to a great start with Beethoven.
Again, shrink your file to a small size.
And, we have an excellent representation using Gameboy-style colors.
Yoga Fire! Here’s a nice example of the NES color palette.
The Sega Master system palette creates a nice image out of the “Great Wave off Kanagawa.”
Download the color tables if you haven’t already. If you need a refresher on creating these 8-Bit graphics or missed out the first time, check out my original post, and create some really cool stuff!
Fire Breathing 2 created by Luc Viator, available under Creative Commons. Derivative image available under the same license. Special thanks to How-To Geek reader krhainos for his brilliant comments and excellent link.
