Thanks for playing and all the feedback! The second ability is actually an area-of-effect damage spell. I'll take a look at making it last a little bit longer and also make the size of it a bit larger too. You're absolutely right that it requires a little too much skill to line up right now. The dash ability goes fast but it is simply meant as a movement ability so I'm not quite as concerned with that one, although maybe if it sent you in the direction you are moving then it would be a bit better so I'll try that too.
I like the idea of an anticipation animation. That's a good, subtle way to make the enemies feel a bit more balanced. A minimap is a good idea too. I was initially avoiding it because I thought it would take away from the exploration aspect but there is definitely a way to do it that does not hurt the exploration aspect.