I would propose four standard keys on side and a thumbstick on the top. Thumbstick is easy to operate and has at least 8 discernible directions, plus 8 half-pus

I would propose four standard keys on side and a thumbstick on the top. Thumbstick is easy to operate and has at least 8 discernible directions, plus 8 half-pushes. That's more combinations than you realistically need so maybe you could relieve the pinky finger and use just 3 buttons.