Thanks for playing therryaki!
You're absolutely right; having takedown upgrades would indeed be cool (e.g. more health regen from takedowns, or faster takedown ticks intervals).
You'll be happy to know that we've tweaked the roll mechanics to roll in the direction last moved (and only to the mouse location if player is stationery!). Will be patched post-rating! The animation problems you noticed should be fixed too!
Our artist @junkgolem and musician @Scratchy_sd would be very happy to hear your high praises for their craft! Thank you!