Read comment below too
I think it's a great comment, here's some of my additions to his comment:
- Don't just add timed hits(mario & luigi games also have that), but also add stuff events like jumping over/on something, allowing more paths(I remember in metal slug 4, you there where some levels where you could go on some stairs, upwards or open a door to enter some dungeon.
- Character customization. No need to add much, just male/female.
- Maybe add different modes, to add some of the suggestions shinobody said(like, leaving Divine Edge & Gold Voucher out in hard mode)
- Add temporary events, like poison, HP regen, power-ups, etc.
The idea is really great, and the art isn't bad either.
Tips for people playing:
- Try to buy armors instead of using elixirs.
- Try to buy swords before battles, armors afterwards. Same reason as above, they heal you. (Don't do this when your life is low, unless you have the elixir as reserve)
- When fighting the dragon, use elixir when you're almost dying(1 - 500 HP left)
I fought dragon on day 11, and while having katana and equal level armor and a elixir, I got to beat him. When he had his life left, my HP was running out, I used elixir and got the luck of defeating him.
^Summarized: Great game! :D