Yeah, I'm thinking about making an 80s ROM, so I like your 2nd suggestion. However, I have never done anything with sprites. Most tutorials begin with what people consider step #1, but they underestimate my ignorance - I've had trouble even opening Tile Molestor and I don't even know how to get to the "locations" in Hex editors that people often discuss and screenshot. I've spent many, many (many) hours with NOSE, so I don't mind putting in the time tinkering and learning, but I'm starting a level 0 when most people assume I'm ready for level 1.
Can you start me with how to find, download, and open your suggested sprite editor and hex editor? Once I open a ROM in these, I can start figuring things out, I think. I've seen many crazy things you've done with graphics - I'd be thrilled to do my own stick tape (and eventually logos and banners).
Thank you,
Matt