Promo shots of characters for my next project

[Curly]

The detail in the ear grabs too much attention, and the fact that the face is covered doesn't help.
It took me more than usual to know what was going on

I at least read the image way easier with these two little changes.


The sword arm looks a bit tiny I think? Or is it because of the foreshortening. It's a tricky thing to do in pixel art.

[hobbler_toppler]

Thanks Curly, that kind of advice helps a lot. I made some changes to the face. I chose to give him a grimacing expression showing a little bit of teeth, but I'm not 100% sure it's readable. Slightly changed the shape of his head and his haircut as well. Is there anyone else who gets the impression his arms are too small?