Well done, considering.
For a first game, this is rather spectacular. A few pointers:
First off, gradients really detract from the game's 'feel'. They might be easy as hell to use, but the characters just don't fit with the smooth background. That said, the characters are awesome. Loved the orc death sequences. The main character needs a little work- some walk cycle pointers would be in order.
The game could be fun, but desperately needs adjustment- a faster character and some serious variety in the enemies, and perhaps a powerup system, would be in order. That said, the combat system you've got is pretty solid.
Loved the blood splatters. Your characters, though, didn't seem to attatch well to the ground they walked on. Shadows would do the trick.
Keep it up.