Yep, there was a step I forgot. I forgot to download the Microsoft XNA framework that was also on the download page. Hope this helps anyone else who forgets!
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it was a problem with my antivirus. it happened with another itch game too. i turned it off and the game worked fine.
thank you for the help and best of luck with the release. i will surely encourage you again with the switch port when i grab one later this year. on the go is better for this type of games.