Man, I thought SotC had an amazing control scheme. Like literally, if you were to ask me about great control schemes I'd honestly mention SotC. Unless you're tryinh to stand on top of your horse while throwing arrows (I think it's possible) then it should pretty simple. I'd recommend just going around the world enjoying the sights and getting fruit/lizards to get accostumed to the controls, if it's such a bother. It really is an experience unlike any other, one everyone should at least see in its entirety.
Can't say much about the others, I'm actually playing MGS3 too first time.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MwZfXy9mA4
http://osu.ppy.sh/stat2/shinytentacool-0.png