Recommended controller to play?

[DunkarOo]

Does anyone have a recommendation for what kind of controller I should use to play this game? I'm thinking SNES, but all I have at the moment to use on PC is an Xbox controller and honestly it's not that comfortable to play this game with.

[CalicoJack]

For sidescrollers and shmups and nearly every 2D game ever............
..............Always and only the Sega Saturn model 2 gamepad!

If you want to use the original controller you have to get the usb adapter "Mayflash SS Sega Saturn Controller Adapter" to connect it to your PC.
Alternatively you can buy the official reproduction from SEGA/RetroBit, which already has a USB cable by default. (Although the build quality is a little better on the original controllers. My original model1 and model2 gamepads still work even though they are about 30 years old. Just need to clean them from time to time. But i am also very satisfied with the reproduction one!)

This controller just has the best D-Pad ever (your thumb will thank you) and a great 6 face-button layout. It is very responsive and accurate to play with.

[eypyeash]

I just used a DualSense, myself. Anything with a dpad and non-clicky shoulder buttons should work. I hated the stiff clickiness of the Xbox One bumpers versus the 360's softer tactile bumps, so PS4/PS5 all day for me.

8BitDo does good stuff and do have an xbox360like wired stick for pretty cheap.

[Nar!]

I use a legit Super Nintendo controller with a USB converter. Best controllers ever made for old 16 bit platform games, imho (that don't require more buttons than it has). :)