Finally put some time into the beta. I'll get the obvious out of the way, it's a lovely looking game with great art and atmosphere, plus the animation and sound are excellent. I'm eager to see every nook and cranny of the world.
Controls are pretty good, but I'll echo what others are saying that the jump could benefit from a bit of adjustment. In the beginning I was falling off of ledges as I meant to jump. I eventually adjusted to the timing, but a tiny time allowance could help out.
It is encouraging to explore, but I think it's failing to guide me on a path through the world. There are too many paths open at first. I kept running into places where I wasn't supposed to be just yet, which would actually be fine if the main path was apparent OR if the game was truly non-linear (which I very much doubt given the requirement of abilities to gain access to certain areas). Perhaps you designed it that way as part of the challenge? If I think back to Metroids, Castlevanias, Shadow Complex, Ori, Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet, etc. it was always clear where to go next.
Thanks for letting me play, I'm already itching for more. You've got the Metroidvania feel down and it's definitely a day one purchase for me.
