RasterFails

Rasterfails is a digital art meme that originated on the social media platform Reddit, specifically within the /r/funny and /r/pikmin communities. It typically features images created with pixelated or low‑resolution graphics that appear intentionally flawed or poorly rendered, suggesting that the artwork was made using basic raster-editing tools. The humor derives from the contrast between the creator’s intentions and the disappointing visual quality, often expressed through ironic captions or comedic commentary.

The format was popularised by the subreddit /r/Rasterfails, where users post their own pixel art failures, 8‑bit screenshots, or deliberately broken graphics from video games and applications. Users often tag posts with “#RasterFails” to attract viewers who appreciate the aesthetic of clunky visual design. The trend also spread to Discord servers dedicated to meme generators and pixel art.

Rasterfails taps into a nostalgia for early computer graphics and low‑budget game design, while simultaneously mocking the accidental creativity that can arise from simple software or inexperienced artists. Over time, the meme has inspired fan edits of classic games, remix projects, and compilations that showcase how quickly pixels can be misinterpreted as a form of humor.

While the community remains mainly informal, rasterfails are sometimes referenced in discussions about the line between artistic skill and meme culture. The humor is accessible to anyone familiar with basic pixel art conventions, making the meme a staple of internet subcultures that enjoy low‑tech digital art.