No a majority of the graphics are currently from a Public Domain sprite sheet but myself and someone else is using them to create a new original set for this game. A whole bunch of original art is already in the game in various places, it's added as it's made so some things clash at the moment but that's expected.
If you're used to playing more modern RPGs the design can seem a little off-putting and I can totally understand that, as a fan of older RPGs I think this sort of aesthetic brings up fond memories of text commands and the like. Also, you're right to notice the contrast between character and world as I am actually using the tiles in unique ways to give it an original look. Instead of instanced buildings they are all 'cut-off' and always open, kind of like The Sims (for a crappy example). I'm using much more detail than most Visual Muds which makes the characters look stale in contrast. Fortunately making 'cosmetic' diversity is very easy and rewarding, meaning nobody will look the same and everyone will strive to get those "flagship" items. (in theory) In conclusion I totally understand what you mean, I guess it would appeal to people who like MUDs and Visual MUDs, thanks for the feedback though I appreciate it!
Thank you very much I appreciate that!
It does carry itself that way I have to agree. I'm going the extra mile to add a lot of "Inspector" details and text-feedback via colored chat text, the more the better in my opinion! ^~^