GoKawiilNew tool lets users generate 'cursed' fonts like Times New Bastard
A Show HN project lets users create distorted, glitch-style fonts—dubbed 'bastard fonts'—that are exported as standard OpenType files. The visual distortion is achieved through contextual ligature substitutions embedded in the font file, which most browsers and design tools enable by default.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Because the effect relies on standard OpenType ligature features rather than proprietary hacks, these fonts should work across most modern software without special plugins, which could make the tool appealing to designers seeking novelty typography for branding or art projects. The creator notes that if the distortion doesn't appear, users may need to check ligature settings, suggesting the effect could be inconsistent depending on the application.
- Fonts are standard OpenType files using ligature substitution to create distorted letterforms.
- The effect works across browsers, design tools, and print where OpenType shaping is supported.
- Users may need to enable ligatures manually if the distorted style doesn't display.
Source: bastardica.mitpit.com, 2026-09-23
Published there as: “Show HN: Make cursed fonts like Times New Bastard”
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