DAY 2
Decided to work more on the graphics, but took a different approach!
Essentially, I simplified the graphics I had created and have worked on new graphics. (Currently working on them as I write this!)
I figured out how to give a little bit of depth to the game, by using a simple unpassable black block to simulate a ceiling/out of bounds area. Now that I have that, I can begin work on background elements to fill maps up. Once i'm done with those, I can begin working on actual character overworld/battle sprites. Hopefully I can finish the basic graphics in a few days time, so I can get to actually creating the game. So far so good.