If it is a one-off need, and the OP is wanting to replicate it (rather than reuse the PCB) - then a microcontroller might still be the best option, even if it is more expensive to start with. Embedded controllers are where things have gone; you just don't see discrete logic and such used that much any more, because with a microcontroller (among other tools), you can get all of that (which includes the ability to implement upgrades and modifications) in a smaller, lower-pin-count package.
With that in mind, the OP should go that route if they figure they'll ever have the want or need to build other projects in the future.