Since it’s so quiet here, let me start :)
The Steam Controller, albeit being discontinued in 2019 is still going strong here.
I like that you can easily replace the two AA batteries and even though the original wifi dongle broke somehow, it is possible to just link it with Bluetooth as well.
Have you tried a manual solder sucker? I’m trash at desoldering too, but a solder sucker has allowed me to complete a couple repairs I otherwise would not have.
I have, and I actually got this fancy Japanese manual solder sucker with a silicone nib. It’s pretty fantastic for most things, but the analog stick is still stuck. I may try again some day, but I learned long ago that frustration and electronics projects don’t mix.