Now this is some classic arcade chaos, lots of fun! Nice clear cut graphics and really clear cut mechanics. And it just nails the old-school vibe too.
I find it very interesting how this game subverts the expectation of being like old quarter swallowing arcade games that require intense precision and dodging as much damage as possible. Instead, there’s a focus on how inconsequential damage actually is. I found myself gladly trading damage constantly, in exchange for killing an enemy more quickly or rescuing the cutter from spikes. For several levels I happily stayed right on top of the spikes because of how slowly they kill you, compared to the instant kill if the cutter touches them the damage cost is nearly nonexistent.
One thing I did find issue with is that my aim seemed to constantly list to the right, even if I used the slow aim and made sure my sightline was pointed dead straight up, the ball would still fling at a more sideways angle, usually to the right.