Going cyberpunk and riding the vaporware: A look at retrofuturism

Retrofuturism, a blend of forward-thinking and nostalgia, is a design trend that intentionally evokes past visions of the future, often seen in early 20th-century films, literature, and art that aimed to predict technological advancements. This aesthetic is exemplified by the 1927 film "Metropolis," which depicted a dystopian future, and by mid-20th-century sci-fi books and comics featuring space travel and advanced technology. Today, retrofuturism is embraced by designers who utilize it to create unique digital experiences through nebula-like color schemes and retro-inspired typography. A key aspect of retrofuturism is cyberpunk, a subgenre that combines high-tech elements with a gritty, rebellious aesthetic, popularized by films like "Blade Runner" and video games like "Cyberpunk 2077." Cyberpunk's chaotic, glitchy designs give the impression of interacting with unstable technology, using color palettes reminiscent of industrial cityscapes. Another branch of retrofuturism is vaporwave, which draws from 1990s pop culture with its pastel colors, geometric patterns, and elements of irony, creating a more lighthearted and nostalgic experience. Both cyberpunk and vaporwave influence modern web design, offering a fusion of dystopian and playful retro elements.