First of all, as always, this game isn't for everyone as some clearly have certain preferences.
Have you played any games rendered in Daz, like Summer Heat, Summers Gone, Badik, etc.? It's essentially the same principle as them, and there is a vast amount of non-harem games, it's just that the almost never exist in hs1/2 space for whatever reason besides mine. Maybe this comparison helps.
So you can if you wish instantly lock on one girl you like, but there is no real downsides exploring and getting to know girls as you wish initially. Only later on in the game do you have proper drawbacks if you tried to pursue each of the 7 girls at same time, as it's impossible to have high points with all girls at same time, and some choices will be locked due to points.
Moreover, that's also what my players enjoy, the whole point is to replay few times, see how things can effect the characters, what happens if you go with someone instead of another etc. That's the main draw to it, and obviously it's not for everyone.
2. While 7 is a lot, I don't think it's over the top, honestly I don't know a single non harem game with only 3 girls, that would be boring especially if zero girls picked any interest to the player. Balancing is hard, but I am trying my best to give the spotlight to all girls, with some fixes in ep4.5 already + ep5 being focused on lesser screentime girls. And I love all my girls, ain't no way I am cutting one 😊
3. Hm idk how to answer the latter points. Yeah, friendship, relationships and dating is the main motive, with the other being related to certain aspects with parts showcased slightly throughout ep1-4. Parties there will be quite a bit, it's an university setting and I've had my own big share of them throughout. People loved ep3 party and there will be more in future with branching parts and choices ^^
4. and 5. Uhhhh well it's a hit or miss, can't hook everyone with humor. Soli gave me a cup that says "best dev with jokes" so I guess at least some jokes players enjoy 🤣Maybe you going crazy, but he is a goofball for the most part. And a bro.
I appreciate feedback and for the most part I don't mind discussing my stances, as sometimes that can lead to improvements or open-mindness, however I am also not changing the core structure of my game to cater to any categories of players.