Aseprite

Aseprite is a pixel-art editor that also includes a frame-by-frame animation timeline, widely used by indie game artists on macOS. You can draw pixel-based sprites, define frames, and preview looping animations. Onion-skin toggles help align frames. A layered approach allows separate elements (foreground, background, characters). A color palette management tool helps keep consistent hues. While geared for pixel art, Aseprite covers short 2D animations well. Perfect for retro-styled or sprite-based animations, it’s a must-have for game devs craving that classic pixel workflow on Mac.