Well, thanks for the comments guys. I really appreciate them.
Originally posted by S.N.N.Cool effect in the first screenshot. That background is from Ice Cap Zone in Sonic 3, isn't it?
Yeah...the background is from Ice Cap Zone. I also imitated the little parallax scrolling effect from that stage with the moving ice...although you can't really see it in that screenshot.
Originally posted by JacobCool update. The concept of ice skating seems like it'll be quite fun. Also, Mario's Santa hat is awesome. :>
Heh. Thanks, I figured adding in the Santa hat would be a nice touch. Glad you liked it.
Originally posted by JacobAlthough, the second screenshot doesn't appear to fit the theme you're going for. While it looks good on its own, it looks more like a cave in a mountainous or aquatic environment rather than an ice environment.
Yeah...I think I see what you mean. Perhaps it might help if I brightened up the palette of the rocky BG a bit or something. While I'm at it I should probably change the palette of the FG too. Well anyway, thanks for the comments everyone.