Pretty much any controller I put through the Tony Hawk test. THPS/THUG games I find require the most inputs and use of all but the analog sticks.
I find manualling the trickiest thing to do on the Site Deck Dpad. Not quite sure what it is but I think it has to do with how close my thumb is to my hand due to the pad being so close to the edge.
I do have a bit better luck playing THPS on an 8bitdo than the steam deck pad.
Fun tidbit: if you get the 8bitdo pro 2 controller, it has a switch on the back so you can alter it from Steam Deck (X) to a Windows PC (D) to Nintendo Switch (S) with the flick of a button. A universal remote
I recall reading on how they were able to make the map and was rather impressive. I love seeing how devs find some creative way to overcome a technical hurdle.