Honestly, that's the right choice. If the gameplay wasn't focused on in favour of more content - then people might not have had enough fun to even reach the further stuff. You prioritized the right stuff, so no need to apologize, I just want more : D
I died a lot, but I was trying to go too fast through the level. (look I grew up with sonic) Once I slowed myself down and thought a little more about my actions, I did fine. Also I was never too chaffed about dying because the check points were generously placed. I hope you can iron out the dash attack thing though.
The boss fight was my favourite part though. It was a lot of fun, the strategy was nice to learn, and the progression of the bosses movesets were good.