You can backflip in mid-air which is useful to go a little higher or cancel the direction you’re moving in. I don’t remember the exact control for it, but I think it was double tapping after jumping.

Absolutely, it’s a great game.

The fun part of this game is hearing such differing opinions, I had someone explain that Block Koala was their favorite. I personally didn’t gel with Planet Zoldath, it’s conceptually neat but I found it very tedious. Glad you enjoy it though!