Lovely screenshots first off. Am I wrong to assume this project isn't as 3D intensive as TSL. Judging by the screenshots, it almost seems the backgrounds were digitally painted with possibly 3D character animation?
I am guessing it will be gray mater like in style?
that would be correct. We are not going full 3D with this one, but 2.5 with 3D characters over 2D environments --with some 3D elements to them to add life--, essentially because the art of Romano Molenaar is very iconic and we want to make sure people get to experience it first hand!
Maybe you should nudge Romano into 3d texture mapping (or whatever you call it), I'd like to see 3d games with a more abstract look to them.
2.5D is the best if not 2D :)