Play by Instinct: Jazlyn Fung Hei Man’s favorite playful fonts.

Monotype Modern MT® is a refined Didone typeface with extreme contrast, vertical stress, and razor-sharp serifs, giving it a timeless and elegant appearance. I particularly love the M and N, where the clean, sharp corners and striking apexes create a beautifully structured rhythm. The sharp contrast and delicate serifs add a sophisticated touch, giving the typeface that regal touch that makes any text look instantly refined. 

Moldyen Regular’s organic curves and controlled contrast give it a humanist feel, blending tradition with a modern touch. The slightly irregular shapes introduce fluidity, breaking away from rigidity while maintaining strong readability. I particularly love the elegant shoulder of the m and u. The subtle details, especially the finials, make these letterforms intriguing and add a unique charm to the typeface.

I love Mabry because it feels confident without being too rigid. Its compact forms give it efficiency, while the even weight distribution ensures strong legibility. What stands out is the distinctive bowl shape, particularly in the Q, which adds a playful character to the typeface. This design detail balances structure with subtle warmth, making it both functional and visually engaging.

I love how FS Alvar is clean yet inviting. It strikes a balance between being professional and versatile without feeling too corporate. I can see this being perfect for a signage project, where it would bring a playful touch to both print and digital formats. There’s something about its design that gives off a futuristic, almost spaceship-like vibe—spirited, yet balanced. I think it’s a great fit for projects that require a modern, approachable look while ensuring clarity and legibility. 

TT Nooks feels classic with a modern edge. The carefully crafted serifs give it a contemporary look while staying grounded in tradition. I’m particularly drawn to the unique design of the legs and arms, which have an interesting shape that adds character. The slightly exaggerated triangular forms create a distinct rhythm, making it ideal for typography that’s both expressive and sophisticated. I also find the punctuation details intriguing, like the question mark, where the bottom of the dot has a playful touch.

For my final choice, as I grew up in Hong Kong, I chose a traditional Chinese font that I find playful. M Bitmap Square HK’s  pixel-based structure gives it a digital, retro feel, while the square form adds precision and balance. Despite its pixelated design, it remains highly readable, making it suitable for both print and digital use with a playful yet structured look. Although this font is commonly seen in digital signage in Hong Kong, I still appreciate its charm. The city has made efforts to preserve and modernize traditional fonts like ‘Prison Gothic,’ blending heritage with modern signage. While M Bitmap Square HK is distinctive, other fonts are more widely used for regional signage.