Piskel

Piskel is a free, open-source editor that allows the user to create pixel art as well as sprites (small animated characters) and tiles. It works in the browser at piskelapp.com, and a free desktop version for Windows, macOS and Linux runs offline. The editor keeps a backup of the current session, and once you're done, the art is yours to use freely.

The software allows you to create pixel art easily, with clear tools including a pen, mirror pen, paint bucket, eraser, shapes, selections, lighten/darken shading and dithering. You can import an existing image or animation to begin working on it and even watch the project animate in the preview window as you are working on it. Sprites can be saved as .piskel files, kept offline in the browser, or uploaded to a piskelapp.com account, where they can stay private or be shared with other artists. When done, the animation can be exported into multiple formats including animated GIF, PNG spritesheet and a ZIP archive of PNG frames. This ensures that no matter what use you plan for your project, you will be able to export your work in a suitable format. The real-time preview with adjustable frame rate allows the artist to ensure the animation looks as intended before exporting it.

Piskel lets you draw and animate pixel art sprites with a live preview and export them as GIF, PNG spritesheet or ZIP files.

Features:

• When using Piskel, you have the option to import an image or animated GIF you already have.
• Colors are picked with a full color picker, and custom palettes can be created for shading your art.
• An optional Google sign-in on piskelapp.com lets you store your sprites in an online gallery.
• Layers, onion skinning and a frame list make animation work easier, and the sprite plays as you work.

Overall, Piskel offers a quick and easy way to create animated sprites and pixel art. It suits those who are new to pixel art as well as more experienced artists. Because the same editor also works in a browser, users can try it without installing anything, while the desktop version adds offline work and local files. The dark interface keeps the canvas in focus and the tools within easy reach. In conclusion, Piskel is a good free tool for those looking to create animated pixel GIFs and spritesheets.