Compass direction in Nightjar and Papa Sangre

Hello, in looking at the walkthroughs for both of these games, they say to orient the compass properly, and double-tapping to get the game menu. The directions about proper game play are very specific about how many steps to take and then turn to a certain direction. The walkthroughs say to use the lines on the direction wheel, and I know that many of the users have beaten both games, but was that by skill or by luck with that compass? I have no problem orienting to the sensor, but still don't know what direction I'm facing at any time. Thanks. Matthew