hi i like what you have achieved and your introduction to the game, its very interesting.. in addition to pixel perficks response...
i think many pixel characters are easy emphasized with, i've seen this on the creations threads or on the arcade.. usually its the first visual experience then playing the game can make you closer to the character.. some I have seen its been the way they are stood say or big eyes, or oversize feet etc so I would say make the characters visually adorable/ cute/,,and show their feelings etc..