Thanks for playing! Glad you enjoyed, and that you were able to beat it! Balancing felt pretty tough this time around, as I didn't want it to be a walk in the park for experienced SHMUP players, but I did worry that it might be too hard for others. It also doesn't help that I'm not all that familiar with the genre. I was basing a lot of it off of foggy childhood memories.
Your suggestion about the shield upgrade is a really good one! I may go back and add that. I had the same problem you described in my own play-thrus, so I think that'd help a lot. The basic shot "upgrade" is a bit of a troll... but can be useful if you A) hate the weapon you are using, or B) are low on health, as all upgrades heal you a bit.
Outlining June is a good idea too! I may add that as well. As always, thank you for the feedback!