Windows 11 gets a retro Windows 98 look

In a surprising mix of past and present, a Reddit user recently shared a modification that transformed the modern interface of the Windows 11 in the iconic and classic look of the Windows 98. This creative customization, in addition to awakening the nostalgia of old IT monkeys (like this writer), also offers younger people a small glimpse of how things were a few decades ago.

The project, which quickly gained attention online, demonstrates how 90s aesthetics can still captivate technology enthusiasts. The modification goes beyond a simple superficial change, applying the retro style even to popular contemporary applications.

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The magic behind the transformation

To achieve this stunning metamorphosis, the creator used a combination of specialized tools. The mix of these utilities allowed us to customize the Windows 11 interface in several aspects:

• Stardock WindowBlinds: This software allowed the complete change of the appearance of the operating system, including windows, buttons and menus.
• find again: Responsible for transforming the modern taskbar into its classic 90s version.
• Winaero Tweaker: Used for fine-tuning and additional customizations to the Windows 11 interface.

The result is an interface that perfectly captures the essence of Windows 98, with its industrial and utilitarian design. The grayscale windows and taskbar create a striking contrast with the colorful icons and wallpaper, faithfully replicating the visual experience of the time.

Modern apps with a retro look

What makes this modification even more impressive is its extension to contemporary applications. The creator managed to give a retro touch to popular programs such as:

• Steam: The digital gaming platform has gained a nostalgic look, with its library and friends list adapted to the Windows 98 style.
• Discord: The popular communication app for gamers also got the vintage treatment, thanks to the use of Vencord/vesktop.
• Telegram: The instant messaging application was not left out, gaining a “90s” version that integrates perfectly with the rest of the system.

Although the idea of ​​transforming a modern system into something so nostalgic is tempting, it is important to remember that profound modifications to the operating system can bring risks. The author of the original article warns that such changes can cause instability and errors and are not recommended for work computers or main machines.

For those who want a more authentic Windows 98 or 95 experience, the suggestion is to use a dedicated retro PC. This not only ensures system stability, but also provides complete immersion in the golden age of personal computing.

Furthermore, it is also not feasible to try to install these old systems directly onto your hard drive. The ideal is to use a virtual machine. This way you don’t have to worry about the countless viruses that will enter the system, after all, we are talking about a version of Windows that has not been supported for several years.