1) rtp IS required and after i DLd it the game started working so yay!!
2) the art style/music is actually very nice (whatever u do say about it in-game). eyesore or not, it's rather bold and it is coherent as well!! (sorry for so many exclamation points but i really find the aesthetic pleasing and im excited about it)
3) did u include the invisible empty menu item on purpose? it's cool cause it makes a cool sound when i try to choose it. idk just wanted to mention it
hope u find a way to feel better and please stay safe, internet person