thanks for all links! not sure what happened to the site, i couldnt visit it for a while.

Thanks again! These are very helpful

I think a lot of the trouble I have (other than inexperience, lol) comes from the fact that in this game, you're actually seeing a cutaway of the dirt rather than a hole that goes top to bottom   www.diarystore.com/sites/default/files/prairie_dog_house_air_conditioned.jpg  (sorry if the link doesnt work, haven't looked at how to do that yet) Technically, this view doesn't really exist in real life, apart from ant farms or something similar.  It's basically an orthnographic view.

Is there any way to simulate this instead, do you think? I'm going to take your advice on the lighter color and shading while looking at something like this: polarcoordinate.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/antfarm2.jpg   let's hope it works out

Also, as a side question, am I starting in the right place? I'm starting with 16x16 sprites and tiles, then I'm going to work my way up

thanks! I see your posts a lot, you're really helpful

I'm guessing the pre-zoom is the optional larger upload option, I didnt know the zoom button did it anyway- good to know!

I'm not entirely sure how to use your advice, but I'll do my best and re-post it