In its ruggedness and lack of concern to look comfortable or easy, Brutalism can be seen as a reaction by a younger generation to the lightness, optimism, and frivolity of today's web design.

the term has been applied to digital design, with “Brutalism” describing an emerging design style that favors rudimentary layouts and basic typefaces. It’s both a throwback to early web design and a rejection of the super-polished, user-friendly design so popular today.