Hi, Lunch! Thank you for the critique and suggestions! I'll practice with the shadings more and I'll keep your advice in mind.

HI! Not sure I'm the most qualified to be giving advice, but since you asked for critique I'll do my best.

First of all, column 2 is much preferable, as personally I don't like the white outlines. Simple shading is much easier on the eyes. Speaking of which, try using colours with a little more contrast-the ones you have picked blend together too much to be noticed at small sizes. You could also add a lot of depth to the sprites by using more shading-no need to add more colours, just try some deeper shadows, and remember to keep a consistent light source.

Here's an example from pokemon that seems comparable in style-particularly look at how they shade hair to make the head look rounder.- http://www.spriters-resource.com/ds/pokeheartgoldsoulsilver/sheet/26955/

I would also recommend changing the position of the boy's hat slightly on the side view, so that the outline doesn't merge straight into the back of the head. It'll make the shapes clearer and more appealing.

Finally, for some more in depth pointers, here's the ever popular pixel art tutorial- http://www.pixeljoint.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=11299

Good luck!