Hi sir, the game in its current state is a bit strange, I'll give you that. Yes, the goal is to kill 9999 chickens or make it to dungeon level 9999.
X opens the inventory, those symbols are talisman, throwable items the player can use. At the player's base hub, turn right and you'll see printing presses where you can buy more talisman with the cash you collect.
There isn't a big difference between slash and punch, but punch also functions as throw if the talisman is equipped.
Thanks for your comments, I assume you haven't seen the video I made on this project so it's nice to have a pair of fresh eyes on it to give me some feedback on it. If you have any other comments on the game, please let me know.