Hello,
Thank you for the kind words. Very much agree with those game strengths and weaknesses you describe, and we take note.
The power up to break the stone blocks is indeed not mandatory. You acquire it once you clean the three optional "Strength Nurture Areas" that you will find when exploring the map.
Just curious, in which order did you acquire the abilities? The usual sequence is: Fertilize, Vine Crook, Pollinate, Tether, Vine Climb, Sprout.
There are 2 sequence breaks to acquire them in different orders and even to skip 2 abilities. Did you find those sequence breaks? They are not "hidden doors" or "fake walls"; they are in fact in plain sight and you can take them by using the gameplay mechanics.
Did you solve the last puzzle to finish the game? I would like to know what you think of its set up and difficulty.
Thank you!
Cheers