Gave this a go, after a little confusion really like this! Some of the fights are pretty tough, and some are only tough if you ignore things! Think the toughest fights (outside of the 7 imps!) so far are the "optional" fights. Haven't gotten too far yet though (I just started the mountain area), but I really like how if you lose to someone it's not the end, you just get certain things added. Definitely going to keep checking this out!
EDIT: Loving the humor, especially when you show compassion to one that INSISTS you are her rival/nemesis/whatever else she decides to term you.