Well, I did say “maybe with a real d-pad”, it’s just the thumbsticks that aren’t necessary.

I actually did play with the Steam Controller for years using the trackpad as d-pad. It was more of a comfort thing that made it less than ideal which was due to the shape/texture of the original SC, but I could live without it personally if it’s done right.

I’ve even played shmups with it, with the right settings, but I get there is a learning curve and its easier to use d-pad.