I'd say its given that the ending wasn't necessarily finished. The rest of the game is unfinished, why should I assume the ending isn't? My compliment, however, was directed towards the fact that you gave us something with a full story. If it were compared to a written book, it could be said that the current storyline is a short story and the finished storyline may be a full novel. Both have a beginning, middle, and an end, along with necessary details; a novel just has more to it. I find it nice that instead of a few pages of the novel, we have the short story that could become the novel. On another note, I rather like some open questions.
Also, to clarify, I meant wandering with no idea where to go. As it is, we do have direction, and I feel it makes this game better. Some wandering could be implemented by having secrets, as you stated. I would say that hints, such as the "Follow the Light", would make this better, though. Maybe something akin to Phoenix Wright, where careful examination of the clues could reveal something, might be fun (while still keeping it optional). However, if you want the player to wander a bit on their own, a compass would be helpful. One reason I didn't stray off the path much was because I was worried I wouldn't be able to find it again. I could've been overestimating the size of the city, however. A run button might also help in such exploration, and let more impatient people go through parts they deem "dull" faster. I know there were a couple of times I thought I was moving too slow.
The possibility of a run button opens up other doors, too. You stated that you debated making the city more complex, and this would get rid of the problems of doing so. I'd also like to see a little more variation in the city. It was nice, but adding some more ruined parts, nicer sectors, or similar changes might make it cooler. Then again, this could defeat the purpose, but you be the judge on that. This is your game, after all.
Remember, I'm just here to offer help. If what I said doesn't sound great to you, ignore it. Do what you feel will make this game better. You've done very well thus far, and I wish you luck in finishing it.
Two last notes:
Are the extra clues already in the game? I wasn't able to tell for sure in your post.
I'd like to apologize for the abhorrent post referrer in the middle of my previous post. My bad (edited out).