Thank you so much for playing this! Really means the world to me.
I will fix the problems that you mentioned in the tutorial.
You are right about the mobile destroyers. I kept nerfing them but that’s not a good solution. I plan to add another newly designed level with a better difficulty curve. and leave the mobile destroyers for a more difficult mission.
Apologies for the wonky battle end animation! I intend to fix it before the next patch.
I definitely see the crusher shield seeming invincible as an issue. I do like the feeling it creates when fighting the boss, but the shield does have a set HP. Maybe I will show damage onto it when it gets hit to make it feel less permanent.
It is absolutely possible to beat the game without using specials. (I call it the no-special run, haha)
Your Strategy seems to be pretty strong at dealing with most threats!
I intend to use credits for buying certain ships, temporary upgrades and some cards for the ships down the line.
Thank you again for playing! Do let me know if you have any other thoughts, after beating the final boss. I am always open for critiques!