I know that for new players the learning curve can be quite steep, would it be an idea to give players either a starting kit with maybe an identified uncurse and identify scroll, or healing potions, or maybe enchanted starting weapon and armour? Once you have won and ascended you no longer receive it, the ‘are you sure you want to continue’ dialog when you start ascending can say that returning to the surface will end the starting buff.
I could imagine it being done similar to challenges, so when you are a frustrated new player you can choose to opt-in.
I will say, I once looked at 1 star reviews and the common denominator seems to be snakes aka total inability to read as the game fully gives you the solution.