units tend to not "really" appear, they just stand at the edge of the screen where you can just see the tip of their sword. Has happened to both me and my opponent. Some balacing is needed like mentioned before and I find the shop bit annoying.
Definatly a good game though I like it alot, kinda reminds me of M&B :)
Also it would be nice if I wouldn't have to start all over again if I die.
I don't know about Chaos Desert I only played them once and probably beat the game pretty easily but I prefer Burning Hill :p you can end every fight in 2-4 round :) the specials for Dark Wood are awesome though. I think the water side might need a little bump up though. Although they get pretty decent later on.
Btw great game! :D can't wait for part 3 :p