Oh yeah! This definitely has a Castlevania sound to it, and I can definitely hear a hint of inspiration from Uematsu.

Actually, the more I listen to it, the more it sounds like an area before a final boss. There's a sense of subtle urgency that is brought out by the combination of the synths, guitar, bass and percussion. The melodies throughout the track are varied and memorable without becoming repetitive, and I can guarantee that I will be humming portions of the song now for the rest of the day! I really like the 5/4 time signature, it definitely adds a spin on how things turn out with a track.

You mentioned that the overall mix isn't as 'amazing' as other songs, well, it's actually pretty good! All of your instruments are quite balanced for the most part. Honestly, as you keep writing more music, you will find that your ears adapt in order to implement new techniques. I know that's an odd way of interpreting it. It is what it is, I suppose haha! I'm still in the midst of learning mixing techniques myself -- it's a long journey, but the more you practice, the better your mix will sound. I will mention that you could try a few things to help you on your way: adjusting the velocity of notes, using the parametric EQ tool to cut frequencies, and altering the volumes of instruments in your mixer are fantastic ways to create a clean mix. You may already be aware of these techniques yourself because the mix in the track is fairly balanced. If not, please feel free to send me a PM and I will do my very best to explain what I know (which isn't much haha).

This is a great track, and I'm really looking forward to hearing what other kinds of music you'll cook up. Keep at it, ILG. :)

FL Studio really doesn't have any way of changing meter within the same song? I have a hard time believing it would lack something that major, but since I don't use it myself I really wouldn't know.

The 5/4 meter gives this whole thing a nice character, which is one of the things I really enjoy about odd meters. I'm hearing the meter (in eighth notes) as two groups of three followed by two groups of two, which is imo the most effective way of using 5/4 without losing the listener. I like your melodies in here. You have a pretty consistent handle on making enjoyable melodies (and given your inspirations, I hear the influence pouring through). I also enjoy the instrumentation, especially the synth at 1:08. I swear that one in particular reminds me a lot of some of the synth lines in the RPG Maker VX music. The harmonies are fitting and well-balanced in which voices provide them, and when. The guitar and bass are solid, I like them a lot here. They provide some nice rhythmic backing without being overbearing.

I wish I could provide something of value regarding your mixing concerns, but I have no consistent record or understanding of how to bring the most out of a track. In this piece you've successfully balanced your ensemble, however, and that is the primary concern I have for any video game music. To reach the high standards of the modern age, though - just gotta keep looking at professional reference, I suppose!

Good work!

whoa... OMG this song is...