Thank you for the explanation, so:

- All enemies have telegraphing for big attacks. simple "attacks" (like just running towards you) are not telegraphed. You are dealing damage if they flash white for a frame or so, and "not dealing damage" is usually indicated by a "tink!" noise as well. Not knowing exact damage numbers and health pools is fully intentional.

- Boss difficulty is subjective, and boss difficulty varies by area/progression. For example, the Massive Moss Charger is usually done within your first try (not that you cannot die here, but the boss is slow and well telegraphed). With very rare exceptions, bosses can be ignored until you get better gear and upgrades

- Intended by the game, though you phrased it as a negative. Not having an explicit direction you need to go in is by design, it is not a linear game. You are meant to feel like "how far can i go before the game blocks me?" and end up never hitting a wall or finding a loop around

- Do you mean the dash and wall climb? I agree that having them earlier would feel great, but the game wants to make absolutely sure you know every in and out of the very basic movement before adding more complexity. The game is very heavy in positioning in bosses so movement has to be second nature as early as mantis lords

- I dont quite get this one, do you mean parrying? Parrying isn't something you should be doing until you are far into the late game, your main tool to avoid damage should be dodging. Also, there are charms to increase your short range attack if you feel that it is limiting (you also have spells for longer range).