After a few tries I have saved them from the evil lich's curse!
It was awesome!
The game could work as is on an NES, the use of the referenced character is an amazing use of the theme and the controls super appropriate, the tune fits very well and the implementation sounds great, the difficulty is perfect for the jam.
I don't think pressing down mid-air does anything, fortunately you don't need insane luck so that just jumping forwards allows to progress.
Thanks for sharing!