Thanks for playing and for the well thought-out critique. Unfortunately can't take credit for the art, though I am working on modifying some of the sprites and adding my own as I go. You should check out the artists in the credits if you liked it though-- I agree that they did really great work!
For battles, I'm thinking the ability to target parts (it is a mech game after all) and adding a power management / overheat system.
Thanks again!