Joe

I think those badges are for the risk takers with disposable currency who are having trouble with some of the bosses. You're really only supposed to focus on a few choice badges and occasionally alternate to suit your style, so if a badge doesn't immediately call out to you it's probably not worth it (at least not yet).

One of the few issues of Hollow Knight is its backtracking. Despite its amazing atmosphere and great gameplay, roaming the map can feel a little meandering. I can imagine someone getting lost.

The game can actually be sequence broken early on, which I did on accident lol (it's around the point where you see Hornet for the first time). It really confused me until I happened upon the right path. Maybe look up a guide?

Hope you stick with it. Even if you have to settle for the normal ending, it's a game worth seeing through to the end. The "true ending" (no spoilers) requires a lot of work.

Eh, merchants are about as trustworthy as banks IRL ... 😁
(I don't think you can go too wrong buying things in this, other than having to farm because a better item appeared and you spent it all)