A former Air Force pilot turned digital artist created a stunning aquatic screensaver in the late 1990s that has stood the test of time. Jim Sachs, a self-taught programmer and pixel art expert, was inspired by Microsoft’s simple aquarium-themed screensaver for Windows 95 and 98. He released his own version, SereneScreen Marine Aquarium, which featured 3D art and programming in C++.
The standalone screensaver sold well, but its popularity soared when Microsoft licensed a version of the Marine Aquarium for Windows XP. Since then, new releases have continued to update the screensaver, with even a real-time, 3D-accelerated version available for Mac, iOS, Android, and original Windows. The screensaver has also appeared in movies and TV shows like Law and Order.
With the decline of screensavers due to LCD screens and monitor sleep modes, the idea of reviving them on smart TVs and streaming services is a welcome nostalgia trip. Sachs’ digital fish have become a beloved part of many millennials’ childhood memories, with pixel art remaining impressive to this day.
Source: https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/a-former-air-force-pilot-was-so-disappointed-with-windows-95s-aquarium-screensaver-that-he-established-a-25-year-dynasty-of-digital-fish-that-continues-to-this-day