So glad you enjoyed it! Bit of a tangent here, but I'm personally trying to learn more about game design and the human element. Why do we play games? What do players find value in? What makes them fun? etc. It seems simple on the surface but, it is a vastly deep subject. I'm so happy to hear you found it fun. That was my intention, I think I'm starting to get it.
About the controls, yeah I sort of prefer 6DoF space flight myself, but what you suggest with just strafing could be a decent middle ground. Will have to see how it translates to controller as well, if I ever do another space game.
Thank you, I really appreciate the feedback!