Combat could use some work. This is an instance where some minor/modest changes would be nice.

Basically, combat works but it could be better in a number of ways that don't seem too difficult to code. Now, much better would take some coding effort. I would enjoy it though, little bit better responsiveness, better AI, maybe a 3rd attack type, mobs with more abilities, a way to set difficulty, etc., and as OP points out, more sensible water combat mechanics.