Name-calling aside, the font known as Phatzzo is a clever construction that rates points for retro versatility. Like early TRS-80 fonts, each character has a bottom-heavy presence, but the resemblance stops there. Specify the size at 220 point, then slowly dial down to 50 point to see this quick-change artist slip from high-contrast grid into preppy plaid before settling into a fuzzy gray remininscent of a flannel sport coat. The fact that the grid lines are transparent also opens up interesting possibilities, as the clear lines take on whatever background color they find.

This font--from RM New Albion designer Ray Meadows--knows how to stand up to large declarations and scale down for semi-bold announcements. However, be warned—Phatzzo needs a slender companion for small talk. Below 40 point, this fellow loses focus. The set contains full alphabet, numeral, and characters sets all in one weight. Care to display a playful side? The brackets make Mario moustaches when tipped over.

Note: To use this font, unzip the folder and install the .ttf file in the folder C:\Windows\Fonts. Note that the font won't appear in applications until you close and re-open them.

--Kate Godfrey