Thanks. Note that when you die, you will continue from the same map. You don't go back to map 1.
I noticed the fact you can continue on the level you die before. Nice touch!
Prioritise the 3 damage upgrades and the 12% more experience perk over the rest.
I activated the "12% more experience" and it helped. Will activate all damage upgrades when I can check them. Thanks for the info.