There's nothing intrinsically wrong with Shantae: Half-Genie Hero - Friends to the End and the new mechanics it introduces. There's only one major issue with it, though, which makes it hard to recommend. Similar to Pirate Queen's Quest, it expects players to remain entertained by the same levels, which many, even fans, will find hard to do so.

Shantae is an amazing series which I dearly, truly love. It makes me very happy. But I have to go with my head, not my heart, and recommend that you wait for Shantae: Half-Genie Hero - Ultimate Edition. You'll not only get the game's great main adventure, but these mini-expansions are much better suited to the role of inclusive extras. There just isn't enough novelty, length or content on offer to satisfy as standalone purchases... Just don't tell Shantae I said that...