This sounds interesting, I just want to point out one problem with using original sprites; it makes it rather difficult to make backgrounds that match the style. So for backgrounds you're limited to using the ones from the games or perhaps editing them to make new ones, but you can't really make them from scratch without the style being mismatched. But on the other hand, it does make it a lot less work if you don't have to make a new sprite style and make ALL the sprites and backgrounds for it. I just wanted to point that out. Anyway, I get the feeling I'm rambling, so...
I was actually making an Abe-styled game (not about Abe, but using the same sort of movement), but there wasn't really enough of the sort of help I needed (mainly sprites), so I can see where you're coming from
Then again, perhaps I should've finished the demo even though there wasn't much help, cause it might have attracted more XD Oh well. Just out of curiosity, what are you making this with?
Anyway, good luck with this, I could probably help with any technical problems you might have but that really depends on what software you're using.