With the full version unlocked, backtracking starts to make sense once new abilities turn old dead ends into worthwhile detours. The retro pixel work has plenty of character, and the less obvious paths are rewarding when you take the time to poke around.
Combat keeps things fairly lean: watch your timing, mind your stamina, and think twice before wasting a potion. The boss fights tend to stick in the memory, especially the ones lost by a single careless hit.