Really like the special mechanics in this one, but I agree that we need a reason to use them!
Also like that you're not constrained to only managing time, but it instead acts more like a buffer, where it'll block hits, but you won't fail if you run out, that's unique!
Good foundation though, if you can find some time to come back and work on it after the jam - add some polish, and a few more levels, this would be a hitter for sure! Good work!