I had fun playing this. Appreciated the story elements in the intro - I like stories that don't tell you a lot of stuff but it's just how it is. Do this to save the world. Why does the king hold the power? Noone knows. BUT I DID IT! Also suspicious amounts of lava going on :D
I think you should lean into the time loop thing because time loops are great! Makes me think of classics like Majoras Mask and stuff. Each play through uncovers new truths and tips how to solve puzzles, and tips on how to get to those tips. It's like a match-2 memory game played out over and over until you know where everything is, and you can do the flawless run!
I actually appreciate the "no hand holding" puzzle. I recognized it right away to be that and tried to remember without writing it down, then ran over and I forgot, so had to replay that section again lmao.