Ok, the river are supposed to be that way. They slow down pirates significantly so forcing them to take a river path and then placing powerful towers along the riverbank would be a good idea. Yes, the maps with river take some thought to make a good maze. And the splitting pirates don't lag that much for me.
Anyone run into the infinite money problem? I think I fixed that before I submitted to Kongregate.
As for badges, hound Kong staff, I have no power in that. :(
 "Ninjas vs. Pirates Tower Defense 2")
 "Spin Light")
 "Ninjas Vs. Pirates Tower Defense")
 "Reveal it")
 "Ravine")
 "Tower Defence")
 "Push Cannon")