Thank you very much for your feedback! I agree with your analysis. I didn't have time to expand on the story's lore, and even the leel design wasn't well balanced.
I'm working on a new version of the game, focusing more on the forest aspect than the mechanics (since the main reference is Metal Gear. However, I'll also be including the game in the Metroidvania Jam with the "Gears" theme, so having this element present in some way will be necessary).
I plan to include some sort of health control item that drops from enemies when they're stunned; that might help. As for the sounds, unfortunately, I don't have time to explore anything beyond 8-bit-style noises at the moment.
Once again, thanks for the feedback. If you want to see another game of mine that's more finished, try HEXBLADE.