Yeah! That gradient + dithering was a hallmark of artwork made with Deluxe Paint on the Amiga. You can check out the original history and tool here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deluxe_Paint
https://classicreload.com/dosx-deluxe-paint-animation.html
and a python remake here...
So - that last image is actually the *original* sprites from WC2 - the new re-rendered frames are actually here: https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/348964859263713311/862362600671150100/AniGri.gif
Sorry!
No, the idea for an intro to this was Halcyon, Angel, Hunter, Maniac, and the Player are talking on the flight deck of the 'Claw. Hunter and the player are heading to the Orszaga to flight and combat evaluate the Firrekan's first space fighter, Angel's leaving for the Austin to take command of...