Yeah, although a punishment was technically in place it had much less of an impact than I had anticipated. Maybe I will add a score system indeed, as to not rule out finding alternate paths, but this needs some thought. Same goes with being able to (de)activate walls after the ball was shot. People seemed to like that, too, even though it was not an intended feature. Again, needs more thought. I am likely to give it one more update adding more levels, improving the sounds and music (admittedly they were made within 15 minutes..., they were not great to put it softly), and visual effects like bouncing on a wall or reaching the finish.
Anyhow, great feedback and thank you for playing!