This has to be the most helpful reply I’ve ever experienced or witnessed on the internet. Thank you very much! I’ll try to restart the level. I do tend to prioritise keeping the ball in play over collecting power ups so that matches with what you’re saying. Thanks again. That must have taken some time!
I downloaded the game and its source code, and I have new information for you.
There is an upgrade (this game calls it an “extra”) that lets the ball break through that middle column of bricks.
The extra you want looks like a ball with a lightning bolt on each side. Something like:
⚡🪩⚡
It seems to be called METAL or ENERGY BALL.
This has to be the most helpful reply I’ve ever experienced or witnessed on the internet. Thank you very much! I’ll try to restart the level. I do tend to prioritise keeping the ball in play over collecting power ups so that matches with what you’re saying. Thanks again. That must have taken some time!