Hello all,
Reviewing the feedback I wanted to push an update to add to the game a bit as well as address some of the main criticisms.
First of all, I've added a system for permanently leveling up some general character stats: Strength, Agility, and Endurance. These three main characteristics will affect, respectively, damage output / stamina efficiency in attacking, dodge speed / attack speed, and incoming damage resistance. I didn't want to overcomplicate things for a game this size, so having these three main stats felt fine for a permanent form of progression (as once leveled you will keep the bonuses forever). Leveling points are extracted from available "leveling totems" (these will be skeletons that appear normal, but will glow when you are nearby). I hope this also encourages more exploration as some will be more hidden than others.
I've also added a new enemy variant in the form of a torch-wielding zombie that deals fire damage and has some charging attack moves. I noticed there was some criticisms on enemy variety, so I wanted to introduce some more variety earlier on. In total now, excluding one-time use boss-type enemies, there are 13 enemy variants.
I know some people have been asking for a lock-on feature (that a game needs this to be considered "souls-like"), but I don't think that every mechanic from the famous "souls" games needs to always be copied. Aiming control is part of the way combat was intended for this game, and I think adding a lock on so players don't have to do it at all defeats the purpose. I know it's not going to be everyone's cup of tea. I have updated the collision geometry on attacks to be a little more forgiving, and generally there is a "soft locking" system as well (like aim-assist).
There are some other general balancing changes to make the combat a little more challenging / less "attrition" based.
Another update I'm looking into is the ability to re-map the controls. I know this was a big complaint from many players, and though I think the default layout is perfect (obviously), I totally get the need to re-map controls. With this being my first game, though, I have to rework a lot about the way I set up the controls/widgets/glyphs throughout the game to make this possible, so it may be a while.
I'm also considering adding a map system, but I'm not sure if it would help or hurt the exploration aspect of the game.
So, let me know your thoughts and what you would like to see for a future update. Thank you all for trying my game and for all the feedback I've gotten, good and bad!