quasirealistic

Quasirealistic, also spelled quasi-realistic, is an adjective used to describe imagery, design, or representation that is convincingly real in appearance or feel but deliberately incomplete or stylized. It lies between photorealism and more overtly stylized art, aiming to evoke familiar visual cues of reality without claiming exact replication.

Characteristic features include plausible lighting, shading, and materials; simplified or slightly exaggerated geometry; restrained texture detail; and color grading that mimics real-world scenes while maintaining a distinct artistic signature. The technique prioritizes legibility and mood over perfect accuracy, and may employ selective detail, where high fidelity is applied only to focal areas.

In practice quasirealistic approaches are common in video games, animation, product and architectural visualization, and certain forms of graphic design. They offer a balance between viewer relatability and production efficiency, enabling faster rendering and easier updates while preserving a sense of realism.

The term is descriptive rather than codified; it contrasts with photorealism, hyperrealism, and fully stylized art. Critics note that quasirealism can either enhance communication of information or risk a sense of detachment if the stylization undermines believable cues. Used thoughtfully, it supports expressive intent without overcommitting to realism.