When Websites Do Too Much: The UX Nightmare of Over-Animated Web Design

Published on July 20, 2025 · By Haya Ehab

There’s a trend in modern web design that’s hard to ignore—and frankly, hard to use: over-animated, overly-designed, overly-heavy websites. You know the kind. You land on the page, and suddenly:

Sure, animations can add delight and fluidity to user interactions. A subtle fade-in or a hover effect can guide the user. But when animation becomes the center of attention, it turns from enhancement into an obstacle.

The Problem with “Look at Me!” Web Design

Design is meant to serve the user, not impress other designers. Yet many sites load massive animation libraries, scroll-jacking effects, and heavy visuals that come at the cost of:

This style might win awards or go viral on Twitter, but it often fails the moment a real person tries to actually use the site.

The Internet Doesn’t Need to Be This Extra

One of the best, most brutally honest critiques of modern web design is motherfuckingwebsite.com. It’s ugly, it’s raw, it’s fast—and it makes a point.

“A motherfucking website is simple, fast, and easy to use. This is a website. It doesn't have a million useless scripts or styles. It loads instantly. It's accessible.”

Of course, not every site should be that extreme. But the message is clear: websites should work first, look good second, and impress third—if at all.

Ask Yourself: Who Are You Designing For?

Before you add that 3D background or scroll effect, ask:

Web design isn’t a fashion show. It’s a service. Don’t let style overpower function.

Minimal Can Be Magical

The best websites don’t scream for attention—they just work. Focus on:

Users won’t remember your 10-second intro animation. But they will remember how fast and smooth your site felt. And that’s what keeps them coming back.