Showing some interesting techniques u should continue to push down this path.

Perhaps observe henk neiborgs work on shantae 2 risky's revenge and then revisit this piece.

The readability, clusters, cluster contrasts and banding can definitely use more development especially on sprites.

Design-wise the background could use some more excitement and interesting elements imo.

For example the bottom of the wall and the arches could be brought down to emphasize the position of power of the throne.

Background sprites should generally use a faded palette and not share colours with foreground sprites

my money's on the baby

The barbarian looks very seriously-done, Capcom-like, if you will. The face of the opponent is not very clear. I really like what you did for the wall patterns. The sorceror is perfect, but with the kid on his knee, I can't help thinking he's babysitting his niece and nephew, so it's hard to hate the guy :D "What are you doing uncle Drax? Can we watch? It's boring, can you show us something else?"