Hi there, thanks for taking the time to comment. :)
I 100% agree with you on the issues you listed; as the game is at the moment there are quite a few things that were left out in one way or another. I have to think about what the repercussions are for going to zero resources without making the player lose outright. I'll also try and make the game start off in a way that would sort out the basics so that getting off the ground isn't as challenging.
As for tech points, defending yourself and the other suggestions, I just never got to implementing those, and I definitely have some plans for that.
I haven't worked on Shifting Sands for quite a while since I uploaded the version you played, but I am reworking the game at the moment and will try and upload a new version as soon as it's ready. I'm not sure if there's a way to follow a game to see when it's updated, but if not, it should be possible to follow my account if you're interested.
Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed the game despite the clear issues that you outlined, and once again, I really appreciate your comment, thanks again!