This App Will Make Your Mac Terminal Look Like an Old CRT Monitor
I like the command line, but I don’t like it to look modern. The aptly named Cool Retro Term , available for Linux and Mac systems, solves this very important problem by emulating the look of an old CRT monitor.
I’m not going to pretend that this is even practical, let alone necessary. Text-based interfaces are one of the most efficient ways to use a computer, and this application adds a layer of graphical effects to that. This is obviously completely unnecessary, but it’s neat too.
Install the application and immediately start using it, as if you were using any terminal.
The default is a stylish amber monitor with flickering and refreshing lines. Screenshots don’t fully capture the effect, but it’s convincingly retrograde. Head into Settings and you can choose from a variety of different themes, including my favorite, a mode that emulates Apple ][ (that’s an Apple II for those a little less committed to esoteric historical accuracy).
If you prefer something more IBM compatible, there is also a DOS version.
Honestly, I could spend all day showing you screenshots and they would all make me happy, but if this sounds like your thing at all, you should really try out the app for yourself. There are other themes on offer, including some deliciously shimmery ones, which I’ll leave for you to discover on your own. You can also try your hand at creating your own theme by customizing the font, colors, and 3D variables. It’s a lot of fun to play with, so get into the 80’s vibe and get immersed in the game.