Tools

Aseprite

Modern pixel art standard

The industry-standard pixel art editor and animation tool used by indie developers worldwide, combining professional features with a workflow designed specifically for sprite creation.

cross-platform pixel-artanimationspritesmodernindie 2001

Overview

Aseprite is the industry-standard pixel art editor and animation tool, designed specifically for creating sprites and pixel-based graphics. Its combination of professional features, intuitive workflow, and affordable pricing has made it the default choice for indie game developers working in pixel art styles.

Fast Facts

AspectDetail
DeveloperDavid Capello (Igara Studio)
First release2001
Current statusActive development
LicensePaid ($20) / source available
PlatformsWindows, macOS, Linux

Key Features

FeatureCapability
Layer supportComplex compositions
Animation timelineFrame-by-frame or onion skin
Palette managementIndexed colour, palette editing
Tilemap modeSeamless tile creation
Export optionsSprite sheets, GIFs, sequences

Animation Workflow

FeaturePurpose
Onion skinningSee previous/next frames
TagsOrganise animation sequences
Linked celsReuse frames efficiently
PreviewReal-time playback

Palette Features

FeatureBenefit
Indexed colourAuthentic retro workflow
Palette presetsC64, NES, Game Boy, etc.
Colour rampsEasy gradient creation
Sort/organiseManage complex palettes

Pixel-Perfect Tools

ToolFunction
Pixel brushNo anti-aliasing
Perfect linesPixel-aligned
Selection toolsPrecise pixel control
TransformNo interpolation

Professional Workflow

IntegrationMethod
Game enginesExport sprite sheets for Unity, Godot
Version controlSmall, diff-friendly files
Batch exportScripting support
Team workflowConsistent format

Why Aseprite Won

CompetitorAseprite Advantage
PhotoshopPurpose-built for pixels
GIMPBetter animation workflow
Pro MotionMore accessible pricing
GraphicsGaleActive development

Learning Curve

StageFocus
BasicDrawing, layers, export
IntermediateAnimation, palettes
AdvancedScripting, batch operations

Games Made with Aseprite

Countless indie titles use Aseprite:

  • Celeste
  • Shovel Knight
  • Dead Cells
  • Hyper Light Drifter
  • Stardew Valley

Legacy

Aseprite represents the maturation of pixel art tools—professional enough for commercial work while maintaining the accessibility that indie developers need. It proves that specialised tools serve their users better than general-purpose alternatives.

See Also