I found the original version a promising game but with one big problem: the first 4-5 levels where too easy, long and boring, thus making me lose interest in playing again because each time I had to start from scratch and play the long boring bit again and again. Has this been addressed somewhat?
Viewing post in Rogue Declan - Post-Jam Update Released! comments
The early levels are quite easy, but there are many players who find them challenging to complete all the same. It's a balance.
However, if you start the game on Hard difficulty (a new option) it will be like starting on level 3 or 4 . Also try the new Survivor mode where the difficulty ramps up much faster. Or why not both at the same time?