This is how I feel about playing Outer Wilds.

Did you play with a mouse and keyboard? I started it on my PC and it said it needed a controller. So instead I switched to my Steam Deck, but I felt like the small screen wasn’t doing it justice, so I stopped.

Been meaning to pick it back up again.

Controller all the way.

I think it’s mostly the zero-G and ship controls where it matters.

Honestly you can play it with keyboard and mouse no problem. Don’t let it prevent you from playing!
Coming from someone who primarily games on Mouse/Keyboard, controller just feels better, but Mouse/Keyboard shouldn’t ruin the experience at all.