I like it! This certainly fits the rest of the art way better.
If I was to be critical, there are two things I would say:
First, I think you have too many "sketches" of 8 bit characters.. The duck I would keep, but the other pixelated ones I would draw as characters and not game icons.. Just me though..
Second, I like the sketch ideas, but given the overall canvas size, I would like to see some different "pens" being used. My daughter spends a lot of time sketching (which is one reason I really like your concept and art), and her sketchbooks are filled with all sorts of mediums - pencil sketches, charcoal, colored pencil, colored marker, and even some watercolor stuff. I love the rough sketches behind it, but instead of just blue, red, and black pens, it would be neat to see some characters in further or even earlier "stages" of doodling with a wider variety of colors.. I think some more solid (but in detail still "rough") art that draws you closer and closer, and every step closer you get you see more of the lighter sketches and details. Again, just my opinion.
Overall, I am impressed, great job!