In my opinion the game is great. In addition, the author plans to continue to develop it. Many features have not yet been added.
The main problem is TOO many bugs. In the version that is now on the Internet, it is impossible to achieve a bad ending with the very first boss (you need version 1.0031. But everywhere only 1.003). And the departures are out of nowhere. Or ruined saves - this is constant. (Although, to be honest, most of the problems may have been caused by the auto-translator. But it's too difficult to play without it)
Well, soon (May 15) the author promises to publish a new version. Maybe the pirates will have it)
As for the mandatory gamepad... you don't have to buy the original one.
Even in my country you can buy a cheap Chinese gamepad for less than $5.