I really do like this game, but the first two areas are just so punishing, I don't really have enough time to vary my playstyle outside of choosing between berries, potions, and money (money seems like the best longterm option... if I could get to the long term).
I find myself dying in the early game over and over and using the same strategy every time I use the same pokemon, save for rare runs where I get a good additional move. Decreasing the chance of seeing a Delibird items and more chance of getting a move or shop would go a long way. Seeing shops in area 1 would be a night and day difference I think.