Just completed this quest. I must have gotten an easier version (judging by the comments before mine), as I felt the quest as a whole to be challenging but fair. I died 9 times in all, mostly near the beginning. The placement of the Magic Sword is unique and fun. I liked getting the Red Candle and the Red Ring earlier than usual.

One BIG gripe: I had to buy a half dozen keys before I finally found the Magic Key. That kind of grinding is not fun.

Overall, I did like the quest ... but the dungeons and overall feel was just a bit too far from 'original' status for me to place in my upper echelon. Solidly done, though. Kudos!