After more practice, that section is no problem at all anymore, thanks! the key was to keep looking forward. My main issue is the red platforms in the lava now, as far as levels go.
I didn't look at it that way, I agree. A player can choose their route. Implementing some sort of system that rewards players for both finding a different path, and for doing certain goals certainly would be interesting. Perhaps the more stars you get on a level, the more upgrades you could get in a theoretical shop? Or even cosmetics for enemies, or fun goofy things. (BOBBLE HEAD ENEMIES)