One for the sickos: Linux shell ‘revives’ Windows 8’s infamous tile-based Metro look

Windows 8’s much-maligned tile-based Metro interface has found a strange new life through an unexpected medium: the Linux shell. Someone has recreated that distinctive tile layout, bringing back the blocky, colorful aesthetic that sparked so much debate a decade ago. It’s a curious homage that feels both nostalgic and a bit twisted, especially for a platform better known for its command-line efficiency than flashy visuals.

This revival isn’t about usability or a serious attempt to replace modern interfaces. Instead, it taps into the retro appeal and ironic charm of Metro’s design, which once aimed to unify Windows across touchscreens and desktops but mostly ended up dividing opinion. Now it exists as a quirky reminder that even the most controversial UI decisions can find new fans in unexpected places.

For those who remember the original Metro interface with a mix of fondness and frustration, this Linux shell rendition offers a playful, blocky trip down memory lane. It may not bring back the best parts of Windows 8, but it certainly keeps the spirit of its bold design alive in a way few would have predicted.

Source: pcgamer.com