I feel that for the price, this set isn't bad. It's a nice parts pack for smaller builds or for details and has plenty of new/recoloured parts as well as one very fantastic minifig. I think that 'playability' is defined by the individual these days since the old definition of 'playability in LEGO has become... outdated.
There was a time where sets were build with functions galore in clever and unique ways, but nowadays, I think that features like that are few and far-between to the point where we should begin to redefine what makes a set 'playable'.
Great review, though! You put plenty of commentary inn it and I like that a lot in reviews :) And your pictures are nice and clear, which is a plus
On a side note, would you be opposed to taking pictures of the other sets pictured in the back of the instructions, perhaps with emphasis on the crab warrior? I'd like to see if I can make out any details.