I feel really weak artistically when it come to backgrounds, but my game would look really bad without them, so I'm going to have to figure something out. Probably ideally I figure out some sort of simpler art style that also doesn't clash with my foregrounds, which I do feel like I know how to draw.
I guess I'll have to also take a look at what other games do with backgrounds when I survey around for inspiration.
I'm looking at lots of different platformers on the SNES and Genesis and I'm noting how they approach backgrounds, and what they try to do with decorating the foreground. As well as use of color when it's notable.
It's been genuinely really helpful and I've already found a lot of good references I'll take a look at later. I also forgot just how plain Super Mario World really looks, and if that game is so beloved I should probably worry a bit less about my own game's art direction.
@NovaSquirrel mario 3 had a more distinct art style than SMW, honestly
-F
@Felthry Yeah I definitely agree there after looking at them both in the same sitting