This was really cool, what an incredibly creative project
Having to keep checking the second window to make sure you're not about to die is a great source of tension - I almost wish you wouldn't give it away so easily with the knocks
Biggest gripe I had with it was the health UI, it covers too much of the screen
Would've liked a little more feedback on the boss fight as well. Everything dies in one hit, so it's hard to tell if you're even doing any damage to it until it dies
The twist when you pick up the staff and deaths become more gruesome is horrifically done, in a good way
It was very fun to play, and the pixel art feels so authentically retro, too. Great job!