Thank you for the detailed feedback! I really appreciate it!
The dagger and shield are meant to signify what the enemy will do on their turn. Dagger for attack and shield for defend. This could have been made more clear for sure, especially since I didn't have time to animate them.
Yes! This was originally going to be a 3 vs 1-3 enemies, where defeating enemies could lead to saving other creature to add to your party, along with other upgrades besides just stats for rewards. I agree that I need more ways to heal,(and evolve your creatures too!) IT's possible that I continue to work on this eventually.
Thanks again!