Honestly, an arcade stick isn't too necessary for SoulCal. There is a lot of leeway with inputs, and even the more complex characters like Patsuka can be easily played with controller.
Rugi is relatively easy, same with Artichoklos and his sister. The game is fairly balanced and based more on player skill because most characters have the tools to deal with other characters, granted people will bitch about Viola either way, and some seldom played characters like Jin can catch...