Rushgo

I built a web-based application called Retro Pixel Character Maker that converts uploaded photos into retro-style pixel art game characters. The project allows users to upload an image, automatically detects and crops faces, applies pixelation techniques, supports classic color palettes such as GameBoy and NES styles, and lets users download the final character as an image. The goal was to create a fun, interactive tool inspired by old-school video games while learning how image processing and web development work together.
One of the biggest challenges was integrating the frontend and backend smoothly. Handling file uploads, processing images on the server, sending results back to the browser, and rendering them correctly on the canvas required careful debugging. Working with image processing libraries, face detection, and palette handling was also challenging, especially when dealing with errors and compatibility issues.
I am most proud of successfully completing the full pipeline — from image upload to final downloadable pixel character — and fixing real debugging problems along the way. Building a project that actually works end-to-end, uses computer vision, and feels like a real product was a major achievement for me.