Hello World!

This is my first blog post using Next.js and Markdown. I thought I'd kick things off by sharing a little fun behind my latest project: revamping my personal portfolio page with a retro theme!

From JSON to Retro Dreams

I’ve always had a soft spot for retro aesthetics—those pixelated graphics, the neon colors, and the funky fonts that transport you straight to the ‘80s and ‘90s. So, when it came time to give my portfolio a refresh, I figured: why not have a little fun with it?

The new design is nostalgic, colorful, and playful—think of it as a digital time machine. I even played around with old-school arcade game vibes, 8-bit fonts, and a layout that feels like you’re navigating a DOS terminal… but with a modern touch. It’s a blend of vintage charm and the latest web tech, and I couldn’t be more excited about it!

Arcade Vibes and Sweet Soundtracks

I mean, come on—it’s the '80s! What’s a retro-themed portfolio without an arcade? I couldn’t resist throwing in an interactive arcade experience to make the whole thing feel like stepping into an old-school game. Picture it: neon lights, pixelated graphics, and the satisfying sound of coins clinking as you dive into the action.

And because every retro experience needs a sweet soundtrack to go with it, I’ve made sure there’s an 8-bit style soundtrack to complement the vibe. Nothing gets you in the mood for retro gaming like a catchy chiptune loop, right?

Testing Out Tailwind CSS

Along with the fun design overhaul, I also took this as a chance to test out Tailwind CSS. It’s been great experimenting with this utility-first framework, especially for rapidly building layouts with style. Tailwind’s approach of composing designs directly in the markup has made the process quick, flexible, and—dare I say—fun. It’s definitely a framework I’ll be using again in future projects.

An Easter Egg? Oh, You Bet.

And hey, what’s a retro-inspired site without a little secret? I’ve hidden an Easter egg somewhere on the page. You’ll have to do a little exploring (or perhaps some classic key combos) to unlock it. Just think of it as a throwback to the good ol’ days of hidden cheat codes and secret levels in your favorite arcade games. Go ahead, give it a try—I dare you.

Why Retro?

Besides the fact that it's super fun, there’s something timeless about the retro aesthetic. It's a celebration of the roots of digital design, harking back to the days of pixel art and basic web design. I wanted to pay homage to the past while showcasing my current work in a way that’s memorable and unique.

The Perfect Name for the Job

Now, here’s the fun part: I’m convinced I was born for this line of work. Not only am I passionate about web development and design, but did you know my initials are JS? As in, JavaScript—the language of the web! And if that wasn’t enough of a coincidence, my first name is Jason—or, as I like to joke, I’m practically JSON (the data format that powers the web)!

It’s like the universe lined up to say: "This is your path." As if coding was always in my DNA. So, revamping my portfolio with a fun, retro style feels like the perfect way to showcase both my passion for web development and the unique, playful side of my personality.

What's Next?

With my portfolio now live, I’m looking forward to adding more exciting features and projects in the coming months. Expect updates, new creative projects, and maybe even a few more fun surprises along the way!

Thanks for visiting my retro-inspired digital home. I hope you enjoy the vibe, and who knows—you might even uncover a hidden gem while you’re here!

Features:

Retro-inspired design with arcade elements
8-bit fonts and pixel art elements
Tailwind CSS for responsive, utility-first styling
Interactive soundtrack to set the retro mood
Easter egg hidden for those who dare to find it