Created three iterations of a logo I'm making for my group. Need feedback

Heya!

So I’ve got a little group I created called Mouse Entertainment. Basically just another game studio (nothing out of the ordinary). So for the logo, I wanted to achieve a nature aesthetic to the design but yet keep it simple. But I can’t seem to put my finger on which one I favor the most and I need help deciding.

I have tried three iterations, playing with color and putting text within the empty space down below the hat. (Though, I try to stay away from text as much as possible.) The only way I can make the text pop out in white is if I add a drop shadow, but even then it’s a bit awkward to add a drop shadow on a flat visual. Additionally I have also tried setting the text to black, but it just seems a bit unsettling and not fit in with the design. I can’t seem to figure out which appeals most to players so I need help deciding on that.

Iterations:

So here’s my focus questions:

Should I stay away from putting drop shadows on flat visuals or just get rid of the text altogether?
What do you prefer: color or no color?
Which Iteration should I stick with? If none, what do you suggest?

As always, feedback is greatly appreciated.

I honestly prefer the ones without the text. It doesn’t fit with the design, and I like the first design the most. The extra color makes it pop, mainly because of the leaf. I dunno, there’s something about leaves that resonate with me. :wink:

Shading wise, I do feel like something is missing from the first one though. I just can’t put my finger on it.