I played version 0.2.0 (and haven't tried the newer version yet). I wish I could find an access to the very first build for the sake of rating for the Jam - from my understanding, the updates bring some substantial changes. Oh well, I'll speak my mind on v0.2.0 anyway.
The gameplay itself needs some more work. I can see the basis of a SHMUP were implemented, so now it could use a visible hitbox (for when focusing), a boss indicator (yknow, this sign at the bottom of the screen), maybe a power system with more visible effects (I couldn't tell mid-gameplay that my shots were indeed getting stronger) - and of course, proper enemy attacks (all the bullet patterns I've seen are too easy, even if I were a novice - it was extremely mild for Normal mode).
Two other things:
- I've noticed this small character icon that follows you at the bottom of screen. I'm assuming it's part of some character switch system but I've been wondering (all the way from start and finish) what you could do with this mechanic. I couldn't pick up on anything that makes this relevant.
- The dialogues felt like intrusive text dumps. There are convos that last an entire minute in the middle of gameplay, and imo that does a good job at breaking the flow. The convo before the boss lasted for 3 whole minutes, and I think that's quite overkill considering the two previous convos. The topics are far from uninteresting though, especially the last one about the different kinds of love. If only there was a more organic way to introduce these dialogs...
One thing I liked though, the soundtrack. Gotta love this arrange of Complete Darkness!
EDIT: Oh yeah, I'm also curious about how you chose the game's name. What even is an Aro?