Do you like that subsurface scattering is really visible with a darker background? I can clearly see the circles of varying opacity in a step-like gradient, and I can clearly see the light rays static image. Is it something with my browser or how it renders the thing? I really like how it looked more before the "More subsurface scattering" came in.
Tbh I agree the final light steps can give it more of an arcade style and feel less realistic. I think if I used this effect widely I’d make a more professional light rays image with a different opacity. I’m not entirely sure I’d use the subsurface effects or not. If I did I may reduce their intensity.
One challenge with a demo like this is that subtle effects may look better, but they are harder to see. So I balanced making them visible enough to appreciate which is more intense than I’d otherwise want.