In the first level, not being able to avoid the hands is intentional, all they do is slow you down temporarily (there was going to be a helping hand from a friend but that didn't make the cut). In the second level, the jumps should all be very doable - I'm terrible at platform games so I figured if I could do it, other people would too. Balancing is hard! The only thing I can think is if you didn't have any energy, you wouldn't be able to jump. I tried to make sure there were enough energy and health power ups on the first level to fill you up (and the energy powerups respawn just in case) My intention was that you would have to repeat at least 1 level because its not supposed to be entirely linear but each time you "fail" you come back further in so its not like starting from scratch.
Making a game that's more metaphor than fun was always going to be a risk. There is a video if you want to see how the rest of it plays out. FWIW, there are no jumps on the 3rd level , very few traps on the 4th and no dangers on the 5th.
Thank you for your feedback.
Thank you for your reply! I have watched the video and you do make it seem a bit easier than it felt like for me! (although 75% of the video is level 1/2, so technically I did.. you know, complete 75%?).
Even more so than in my own run through I realize that it is not about the game, it's all about the memory and the story. I do sincerely hope that it has helped you in your process. It's a beautiful reflection of your emotions.
All the best to you Ryan, thanks for sharing.