Matthew, we have implemented quite a few features/improvements that you have mentioned. Just off the top of my head, I know we re-implemented (6) pausing during menus, the autosave visual, and most (if not all) of your camera control/animation ideas. All of these and more will be available in our next update, scheduled for Tuesday, August 30th. If you do end up playing the updated version, we would really appreciate your continued feedback. Thanks for your help!
-Ryan