The hottest Graphics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Queen's Wish: A Portmortem Of Mixed Success

The Bottom Feeder • 994 implied HN points • 11 Mar 26
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. The Queen's Wish series was finished with a free epilogue DLC, but its commercial run was mixed: the first game’s Kickstarter succeeded while the second game bombed, and remasters were used to stabilize finances.
  2. The games tried bold innovations—a family-and-royalty-focused narrative, mission-based tactical combat, and an empire-simulation with crafting and fort upgrades that tie systems together.
  3. The biggest failures were the visuals and exposure: poor graphics, weak marketing, and design changes that alienated longtime fans hurt sales, teaching the creator to prioritize a unified visual style and balance innovation with retaining customers.

AMD Client Update at CES 2026

More Than Moore • 326 implied HN points • 06 Jan 26
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. AMD’s CES updates are a mid-cycle refresh that makes AI a standard across its client lineup, pushing Ryzen AI into volume laptops rather than keeping it as a premium add‑on. This keeps the existing Zen 5 platform relevant without new silicon.
  2. AMD is relying on software to drive the next wave of improvements — ROCm for local AI and FSR Redstone for gaming — delivering bigger performance and features through optimization and ML-assisted techniques instead of new chips.
  3. The hardware moves are about segmentation and integration: Ryzen AI 400 targets mass-market laptops, Ryzen AI Max+ and the Halo developer platform aim at local AI mini‑workstations with large unified memory, and the P100 embedded APUs focus on industrial and automotive edge AI with integrated CPU/GPU/NPU designs.

[GB200 NVL72] The Mainframe of Doom

Irrational Analysis • 339 implied HN points • 30 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Nvidia's GB200 NVL72 poses an existential threat to competitors in the datacenter CPU market, offering a unique 2:1 ratio and improved integration perspective.
  2. The reintroduction of mainframes signifies a strategic move by Nvidia, with the new AI mainframe/appliance providing massive TCO advantages and performance gains.
  3. Jensen's benevolent trade offer complements technical excellence in the face of political challenges, aiming to secure Nvidia's position in the market and potentially disrupt the status quo.

Hands-on graphics without X11

Blog System/5 • 1240 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Using NetBSD's wscons framework, you can access and manipulate the graphical framebuffer directly without needing X11. This lets programmers draw graphics in a simpler way.
  2. The architecture of wscons is structured in layers, making it possible to interact with various hardware devices uniformly. It ensures that both output and input devices work across different machines.
  3. You can handle keyboard input using a feature called wsmux, which allows you to manage multiple keyboard devices easily. It makes your program more robust if a keyboard isn't connected right away.

MCU land, part 9: ST7789, the final frontier

lcamtuf’s thing • 1836 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Driving a 2.8" 240x320 IPS panel with a Microchip SAM S70 Cortex-M7 MCU can be surprisingly simple.
  2. The steps to set up the ST7789 display controller involve minimal and straightforward commands like hardware reset and configuration for color mode.
  3. Generating image data for the display in 16 bpp RGB565 color mode is achievable through tools like ImageMagick.
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GM Shaders: Noise 3

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 157 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Simplex noise is a noise algorithm that is cheaper in higher dimensions and produces fewer artifacts than Perlin noise.
  2. Consider baking noise onto textures for optimization, especially in 2D for better performance.
  3. To make noise tillable, stick with a square grid and use modulo tiling for seamless textures.

Under the microscope: Shrek Extra Large (GameCube)

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 06 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. The GameCube port removed several advanced graphics features from the original Xbox build, leaving rougher visuals and an inconsistent framerate compared to the technical demo of the Xbox version.
  2. Entering the player name GASTON or IDKFA triggers an undocumented cheat that starts on the world map, unlocks every stage, enables a Cheat Menu, and grants $99 to buy all cheats.
  3. The hidden cheat was found by inspecting emulator memory and reverse-engineering the game (tracing a case-insensitive string compare to cheat logic), and IDKFA is a clear nod to Doom’s famous cheat while GASTON’s reference is unknown.

The Signs of Eveningside

Crewdson Trail Log • 216 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Graphics
  1. The importance of signs and design details in setting the scene and telling a story through photography
  2. Collaboration between artists and designers to create authentic and aged-looking signs for the series
  3. Incorporating small details like license plates and period-specific designs to enhance the overall aesthetic of the photographs

Comparing the Names of Various Retro Computers

Goto 10: The Newsletter for Atari Enthusiasts • 117 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Product naming can be challenging even today, as seen in the variety of names given to retro computers.
  2. Using numbers was a common naming convention for retro computers, such as Apple II, Commodore 64, and Atari 520ST.
  3. The name of a product plays a significant role in its success and recognition, with memorable names like Atari and Amiga standing out.

MCU land, part 10: blocks all the way down

lcamtuf’s thing • 1224 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Using a 32-bit MCU was necessary for storing graphics assets like bitmaps and ensured smooth gameplay.
  2. The display quality is not just about resolution; advancements in technology like camera sensors and display panels also play a crucial role.
  3. Game development on microcontrollers involves considerations like random number generation, handling rapid player inputs, and optimizing rotations for a smooth gameplay experience.

GM Shaders: Mipmaps

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 117 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Mipmapping helps to downsample textures for improved visual quality and performance.
  2. Enable mipmapping in GameMaker games to enhance texture filtering with different filter options.
  3. Consider factors like memory usage, texture sizes, and avoiding seams when utilizing mipmapping in game development.

LLM Renderman

Sunday Letters • 59 implied HN points • 07 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. The early days of CGI faced many challenges, like high costs and limited realism, similar to current struggles in AI development.
  2. Just like CGI evolved to become seamless in movies, AI technology is expected to improve and become a normal part of our lives over time.
  3. Even if some early attempts in AI look flawed, progress is being made, and future innovations will likely succeed where the past struggled.

GM Shaders Mini: Dither

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 196 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Dithering can help blend colors smoothly without mixing them
  2. There are three common types of dithering algorithms: Ordered (Bayer), White Noise, and Blue Noise
  3. Blue noise can provide a more even distribution of values compared to White noise

Diagram-o-poly

Chartography • 117 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Graphics
  1. Diagrams are an under-theorized art form compared to charts and maps.
  2. Diagrams can manipulate space and time, creating new perspectives and insights.
  3. Diagrams excel at illustrating the impossible and conveying complex information visually.

GM Shaders: MRT

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 98 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. By using gl_FragData[0-3], you can output 4 separate fragment colors to up to 4 surfaces with one draw call
  2. Multiple Render Targets have various applications like deferred rendering, unique object IDs, and depth maps in 2D or 3D contexts
  3. Consider limitations with MRTs, like compatibility with platforms, VRAM usage, and controlling fragment outputs independently

GM Shaders Mini: Imagination

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 157 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. When working with shaders, think in terms of vector fields to direct the flow and create gradients.
  2. Consider the acceptable input domains and the output ranges of your functions to prevent errors and unexpected results.
  3. Utilize periodic functions for repetition, sine and cosine for waves and rotations, dot product as a ruler, and exponentiation for adjusting brightness levels.

GM Shaders Mini: Phi

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 117 implied HN points • 25 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Phi is a mathematical constant used for distributions and design.
  2. Phi is considered the "most irrational number" and has various practical uses.
  3. Understanding Phi can optimize shader computations and distribution techniques.

GM Shaders Mini: Bloom

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 137 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Bloom effect makes elements appear brighter and richer.
  2. Creating bloom involves stages of threshold selection, blurring, and layering.
  3. Understanding distributions can help create more aesthetically pleasing glow effects.

GM Shaders Guest: Gaming Engineer

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 137 implied HN points • 18 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Noah Pauw discusses creating advanced 3D graphics in GameMaker using shaders for real-time lighting and PBR materials.
  2. Game Maker is favored by Noah despite advice to switch to Unity or Unreal for photorealistic 3D games.
  3. Noah shares insights on using Blender for 3D modeling, creating lighting shaders, implementing PBR materials, and drawing 3D environments in Game Maker.

GM Shaders: WebGPU

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 58 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. WebGPU is the new standard for accelerated graphics and compute, set to replace WebGL. It offers more features, deeper low-level access, and enhanced security, making it exciting for developers.
  2. WebGPU provides cross-platform support, allowing for better control over GPU resources, and introduces compute shaders for handling diverse data types efficiently.
  3. WGSL, the shading language of WebGPU, is stricter than GLSL with similarities to Rust or Swift. It offers optimizations and consistent results across different hardware configurations.

GM Shaders Mini: Scaling

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 117 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Learn how to handle scaling, aspect ratios, and centering in shaders.
  2. Understand the importance of converting between texture and pixel coordinates.
  3. Center pixel coordinates to properly scale and center elements on the screen.

Cyberpunk 2077

Have You Played? • 117 implied HN points • 25 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Cyberpunk 2077 has an overly long and linear prologue, which takes away from the player's freedom in the game.
  2. The game struggles with editing in terms of dialogue and storytelling, making it feel verbose and lacking in immersion.
  3. Despite impressive graphics and familiar cyberpunk aesthetics, Cyberpunk 2077 falls short in delivering unique gameplay, compelling story, and engaging world interactions.

GM Shaders Mini: MandelBots

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 117 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Using raymarching for rendering buildings can simplify complex fractal generation
  2. Deferred rendering can be utilized to optimize lighting workload by rendering lights onto surfaces
  3. Implementing HDR tone mapping can enhance color accuracy and brightness transitions in the game graphics

GM Shaders Mini: FXAA

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 98 implied HN points • 22 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Fast Approximate Anti-Aliasing (FXAA) is a cheap and effective algorithm for producing smoother images.
  2. Understanding the uses and limitations of FXAA is important for practical implementation.
  3. The FXAA algorithm involves sampling, computing luma, gradient directions, and blurring for smoother results.

GM Shaders Mini: CRT

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 98 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Emulating the retro CRT monitor look involves RGB color masking, pixelation, chromatic aberration, screen curvature, vignette, pulsing, scanlines, and bloom.
  2. Creativity allows for creating variations using different effects like scanlines, chromatic aberration, vignette, or just the RGB mask and pixelation.
  3. The tutorial provides insights on how to recreate the CRT effect for a game's visuals, providing a cozy and nostalgic feel.

Finding a better perceptual metric than FPS

Philip’s Newsletter • 24 implied HN points • 26 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Jitter is more important than average FPS in 3D environments because it affects the realism and immersion of the experience. If frames are delayed, it can surprise the brain and break the illusion of movement.
  2. The average FPS can vary greatly due to different hardware and complex user-created content. This makes it hard to rely solely on FPS as a measure of performance.
  3. New metrics like Normalized Jitter and Normalized Frametime Variation are being tested to better reflect user experience. These metrics consider the timing of frames and how noticeable the delays are.

Apple Animation Through the Ages: 2007

Jacob’s Tech Tavern • 218 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. In 2007, Apple introduced Core Animation, revolutionizing how animations were implemented on Mac OS X.
  2. Core Animation streamlined animation implementation by providing a declarative framework that leveraged the GPU for smooth transitions.
  3. Developers could easily create animations with Core Animation properties like frame, border, filters, and opacity.

GM Shaders Mini: Vector Spaces

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 39 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Different vector spaces like texture space, screen space, object space, world space, view space, and projection space serve specific purposes in graphics programming.
  2. Understanding these spaces helps in manipulating orientation, scales, positioning, and skewing of vectors for advanced effects like fog, SSAO, and shadow mapping.
  3. Each space has unique characteristics, such as how texture space is measured in texel units and world space represents position in the room.

Star Trek: Resurgence

Have You Played? • 39 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Star Trek: Resurgence is a dialogue-driven adventure game focusing on preventing an interplanetary war.
  2. The game mimics the style of Star Trek: The Next Generation with dialogue choices that affect crew opinions.
  3. The inclusion of unnecessary minigames like stealth and tricorder scanning detract from the core storytelling experience.

Are You A Gamer, Yet?

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 39 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. There are over a billion gamers worldwide, but many people have not yet embraced gaming. It's likely that in the future, almost everyone will be a gamer.
  2. AI has had a significant impact on gaming, improving graphics and gameplay experiences. At the same time, gaming advancements have also contributed to the development of AI.
  3. The relationship between AI and gaming is a two-way street, where each technology enhances the other, leading to better experiences for players.

GM Shaders Guest: Bart

GM Shaders Mini Tuts • 19 implied HN points • 27 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Using 'shader_enable_corner_id()' in vertex shaders for 3D particles allows identification and manipulation of vertices in GameMaker.
  2. Understanding vertex buffers and formats in GameMaker is essential for drawing and manipulating shapes.
  3. By manipulating corner IDs in shaders, it is possible to transform particles and sprites in GameMaker into 3D billboards.

SDL Tutorial Part 2: Drawing Text

Deus In Machina • 36 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. To display text in SDL2, you need to include SDL_ttf.h and work with functions like TTF_Init, TTF_OpenFont, TTF_RenderText_Solid, and SDL_CreateTextureFromSurface.
  2. When using SDL2, surfaces are CPU-based bitmaps ideal for pixel manipulation, while textures are GPU-based and essential for efficient rendering.
  3. SDL2 can render using either SDL_Surface or SDL_Texture, with SDL_Surface being software rendering done entirely by the CPU, bypassing the GPU.

GPU GUI: Table Of Contents

Hasen Judi • 35 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. The article series covers topics like Signed Distance Fields, creating complex shapes, and GPU draw commands.
  2. The project involves using languages like Odin, SDL2, Metal, and OpenGL for implementation.
  3. Readers can learn about GPU UI design and implementation by following the series on the website provided.

Bitmap Bonanza!

Dan’s MEGA65 Digest • 22 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. MEGA65's VIC-IV video chip has multiple graphics modes inspired by vintage computing history
  2. VIC-III bitplane graphics mode in MEGA65 is fun to use with BASIC 65 for drawing vector art
  3. You can save and load graphics screens in IFF-ILBM file format on MEGA65, and convert modern images to display on MEGA65

Sprite Attack!

Dan’s MEGA65 Digest • 11 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. Sprites in computer graphics are dedicated to moving objects like spaceships or characters and were essential for video games and user interfaces on the Commodore 64.
  2. MEGA65 supports VIC-II hardware sprites and offers sprite-related BASIC commands to make it easy to use in programs, allowing for creating simple arcade games.
  3. Understanding sprite features like multicolor mode, double size options, collision detection, and managing sprite image data through tools like the Sprite Editor enhances game development on the MEGA65.

An Interview with Ian Fieggen, Shoelace Expert

Syntopikon • 11 HN points • 17 Apr 23
🪑 Design Graphics
  1. Ian Fieggen, known as 'Professor Shoelace,' has compiled extensive shoelace information in various formats for over two decades.
  2. Fieggen uses outdated tools like an old PC running Windows 8 and ancient graphics software to continue his work.
  3. Shoelaces, often underestimated, have led to creative solutions and improvements for different needs, like hiking or running.

An In-depth Review of the Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 1

Arraybolt's Archives • 1 HN point • 17 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Graphics
  1. The Kubuntu Focus XE Gen 1 is a high-performance Linux laptop with a sleek design and advanced features.
  2. The laptop handles multitasking and heavy workloads with ease, thanks to its powerful specs like i5 processor and 32 GB RAM.
  3. The graphics performance is impressive, with smooth video playback and efficient screen resolution, making it a great choice for non-gaming tasks.