Buildings in retro game 3D models are sharp mainly because retro hardware relied on low polygon counts and pixel art textures that prioritize clear, defined edges over realistic softness.
Low polygon counts mean fewer surfaces—edges stay crisp instead of blending. Pixel art textures (made of distinct pixels) add sharp lines that stand out on old screens, helping developers make buildings recognizable despite limited processing power.
Try classics like *Super Mario 64* or *GoldenEye 007*: notice how building edges remain sharp even up close, since simple geometry and pixel textures avoid the softness of modern high-poly models.