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Logitech G Extreme 3D PRO Joystick, 12 Programmable Buttons, 8-way Hat Switch, Stable, Weighted Base, Rapid-fire Trigger, USB, PC - Black/Silver?
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187 reviews of this product found across Reddit:
I recently found a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro at Goodwill for like $9 and it played xwing v tie fighter great. Only $32 for a new on on Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U. From threads I looked up, looks to be one of the best budget sticks out there, especially for the xwing series.
Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GS92J9PWDQ6NQBWK7B4X
That’s what most people using a PC start out using. Not sure what people using apple products can and can’t use?
Also check out VATSIM if your researching simulating realism in a simulator. There are lots of shortcomings vs real life, but it’s a network that try’s at least :)
It's a little over 40 (used to be 39) but they last forever and have great control
Honestly, you'd probably be best served by buying a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro for $30ish and using that rather than your PS4 controller. Gamepads will work, but aren't the ideal way to fly, and the game's really meant for use with an Xbox controller, not PS4. That stick is cheap and will serve a beginning flight simmer quite well.
On the control look into the sensitivity settings.
Or look into a cheap joystick like this one.
I've personally used this one for like a decade now and it still works just fine.
This Logitech is on sale again for $19.99. Great classic budget stick
I use my sim setup as my cockpit for flying as well. Using the clutch/throttle for rudder is great.
I got the Logitech extreme 3d pro joystick. It's an entry level joystick that you can get for about $30-40 usd. Sadly it doesn't come with a throttle, but it does have a throttle slider on it. When I'm taking off or need the throttle I just hold it in my lap, otherwise I've set up a little table on the right of my chair for in flight. I'd say check this out as it's a low cost entry stick that feels pretty good.
https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U Oh it's actually 50% off rn on Amazon.
Only issue I'm having is that I'm looking to get a throttle and there's not really any standalone throttles for a decent price. So upgrades down the road can be a little tricky.
This is one of the few times I'd consider this $30 stick a major upgrade
Really good deal on it now, definitely worth it trust me
Sure, but there's no way to tell if it will bring you joy or not until you've spent ~$70 or so. I suspect something cheaper like the classic Logitech single-stick won't actually have enough axes to emulate a standard gamepad.
I'm a very casual gamer in general, so I don't ever play for more than a few hours a week. I just bought this Logitech one from Amazon for $20 as it frequently goes on sale. It's for PC only though.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/
Honestly have no idea how it compares to others as I haven't tried it out yet, but for $20 I figured it'd be enough for me.
If you're more than a casual gamer than I'd guess you'd probably want something better.
also, if you find you're into it at all, consider getting a cheap flightstick as it makes a HUGE difference. You've probably seen how crazy people can go with this stuff (and how expensive some of them are!), but just something pretty basic like this is big jump in the game's feeling and ease of control (and are completely customizable in game).
I used one of these for many years. $40 at Amazon
You'll be much, much happier with a joystick. Even the most inexpensive one is 1000X better than trying to get along with mouse & keyboard.
Just for example I bought this one last year when I was remoted & needed one temporarily: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
It is by no means a great joystick but it is just $30 and literally 1000X better than no joystick. Maybe 100,000X.
(FYI I thought the spring on that stick was way, way too stiff and finally did some surgery on it to calm it down a lot. That was my main complaint with it.)
You are welcome!
For an inexpensive joystick, look at the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro. Currently $30 on Amazon. I've had one since 2017 and it works today just like it did when new. By now I have a lot more hardware, but I still use that joystick for certain planes.
Your in luck! Logitech 3D Pro sticks are $20 after a %50 discount. Go buy one. I got two but I might have to return one because they are both going to be for the right hand.
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro is only $30 and has everything you need. Good enough for me, anyway. Its SO GOOD in VR.
I would suggest getting a simple joystick for starting out. Its not perfect, but is a far better experience than using keyboard and mouse.
I use the Logitech 3D Pro, and for 40 bucks, its a great way to get familiar with the game and the basics of flying without investing too much.
There is a tutorial that teaches the basics of flying in a small plane that acts as sort of a foundation for those of us with no flying experience.
I just use a Logitech 3D Joystick and a regular keyboard. Joystick is nice to have pitch/roll/yaw all on one stick as I imagine it would be a little cumbersome on a controller. Hat switch for power shifting, thumb buttons for targeting/hardpoints/weapon groups, secondary fire.
For keyboard, WASD for strafing and increasing & decreasing forward/reverse thrusters, number keys for UI panels, and mostly stock keybinds for everything else. Plenty versatile for me, haven't felt the need to get a thruster and can take down bounties well above my combat rank.
So maybe try just a joystick since stock is really limited and expensive right now. Thruster might add to the immersion (esp in VR) but KB+Joystick should be easy enough to set up and use.
You dont NEED a hotas, it just makes it easier. Yes there are a lot of commands but you can get by with an xbox controller and voiceattack for voice commands. Also many of the commands that can be bound to buttons can also be accessed via menus in the game GUI so you dont need to bind everything.
I played for the first 6 months with just a 3D Pro joystick
The average time to get a PPL is around 55-65 hours. Most of the extra time occurs in the beginning, not the end. The cockpit isn't a very good place to learn basics due to distractions and the difficulty to focus on specific procedures. By using a procedure trainer (Flight sim + joystick) in the beginning, I've found that you can knock about 10 hours off the flight time of the PPL.
This assumes that once you start learning, you don't take any extended breaks. When you break for a month or two, it usually adds another few hours each time to get back into the swing of things.
I suggest something like this or similar: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=Saitek+joystick&sr=8-4
You want programmable buttons to use for flaps, the ability to control rudder and brakes, and a "throttle" control (usually just a little dial). You for sure do not need the yoke / power levers / rudder pedals setup for doing procedures in the beginning.
Consider that when you begin flying ... most of what you are learning to do is multi-tasking. Most people's brains get overwhelmed with the information they need to keep track of & manage (radios, flight instruments, controls, patterns, situational awareness, etc). By learning these things piece by piece, you can build up your ability to manage tasks simultaneously. This is what saves you time in the plane. By the time you're in the air, you know where to look, how to control your aircraft through common procedures, how to navigate, and how to get in & out of the pattern. This makes the time in the aircraft much more productive and saves you a ton of money.
Flight sims have no limit on the budget scale, it can be very expressive but it doesn't have to. You can easily start small and upgrade hardware as you. I think Microsoft Flight Sim is a very good start (got me into it back in 95) and this iteration looks very good, I'll probably get it once it can run off Proton/Wine.
You could start with keyboard and mouse but I strongly suggest a joystick. Here's one I've been playing with some titles in the past year https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fxqpFbX703XPC
This is what I use and I'm very happy with it.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_EGppFbM1HJVV5
I'm a beginner as well and I've had this for 5 years. Used it a lot playing War thunder. The rudder pedals are in the flight stick. You rotate left or right and it acts like rudders.
A lot of people here are recommending the T16000M but I think that's a pretty expensive entry point to flight sims (at least by my wallet).
I play for about an hour every day using the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro and I have absolutely no complaints. It's a lot cheaper and feels great to fly with. I've seen many posts on this reddit of avid flyers that have used this controller for years.
I've never used the T16000M so I can't really speak to the difference in quality. Just figured I'd chime in with another great stick that might be more in your price range. Good luck and happy flying!
From what I could tell at least on amazon a lot of the affordable flight sticks seem to either be sold out or have the price jacked up. I was just looking at some flight sticks with a buddy a few weeks ago and there were some good ones from thrustmaster for as cheap as $25, but as of a few days ago those same flight sticks are either completely sold out or as expensive as $80 now. Even the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro that /u/Shinobiii mentioned is sold out, at least on amazon.
PC:
Factorio
System Shock 2 (read the manual!)
Chex Quest (no really. The original - play on a doom source port for maximum effect)
X Wing (1994 - get a joystick from amazon, this one works great. To put in perspective how well made this game is, the new Star Wars Flight Sim to be released this year has much of the same gameplay mechanics as the old one. This game is seriously badass. DM for guidance if you’re interested.)
Vanquish (insane 3rd person shooter. Nuts and fun)
Get PS One emulator and play Castlevania Symphony of the Night if you haven’t.
> Unless you spend a ton on dedicated hardware, there's little point in ever trying SB.
That's absolutely not true. You can get started with a 3D Pro for cheap and do just fine. In fact, for a new player the difference between cheap hardware and expensive hardware really isn't recognizable, because they're still learning the fundamentals of how to control their plane. If the 3D Pro is too expensive, a cheapo gamepad can also be used to decent effect.
If you're willing to put a bit of effort in, you can even get started without any additional hardware, and just learn to use mousejoy.
As for 'agonizingly slow gameplay', a reasonably populated room (Rank III rooms for instance) is anything but slow. I can routinely get a fight within five minutes of takeoff.
Elite: Dangerous remains my favorite VR experiences. (It is plenty fun in non-VR as well.) Make sure to pick up a flight stick. This one is what I fly with, and it is only $30.
Logitech's Extreme 3D Pro, while a silly name for a joystick, works well enough in E:D and won't break the bank. You can always get a HOTAS later if you decide you want something better.
https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
Good enough sim performance that you yourself are happy with. Don't compare your own too much to those of others because people have different hardware. As long as you're happy, that's all that matters.
Good weather representation.
A decent joystick at least. The cheapest/best starter one I'd say is the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro. Some people are okay with mouse & keyboard, which is okay, but this is my personal opinion, so joystick it is.
If flying online, charts. If flying offline, it doesn't really matter, but I like having charts even offline.
I like having dual monitors for things like charts, checklists, and supplemental sim programs such as LittleNavMap, Aivlasoft, ChasePlane, etc.
Another one to consider:
Cheap, but really quite excellent. A good number of buttons on top. I use mine in conjunction with a T-16000m as the left-hand stick: the ergonomics aren't really designed for left-hand use but I was able to get used to it quickly.
FSX:SE is by far the best running sim on lower spec PCs.
You said you don't have a gaming PC which means you probably have integrated GPU (or maybe a low-tier dedicated GPU), however you are still likely to have a decent CPU, FSX:SE is more CPU-intensive than GPU-intensive and that's why I think it will be your safest bet.
FYI I run it on an i5 3.2 Ghz (it's a quad core) and it runs very well. I think it could run equally well on a dual core CPU of similar speed (FSX doesn't take advantage of multi-threading that much).
In addition it's 32 bit so it will never use more than 4GB of RAM. So you don't need a PC with a very large amount of memory.
Finally, you said you're going to use a mouse but I highly recommend getting a 3-axis joystick with a throttle slider, you can get one for less than $50, for example this one: https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-963290-0403-Extreme-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_147_bs_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3E3JMB4KXRFV43SKRAQT
I use the Logitech Extreme 3d Pro for flying in Arma 3:
https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-963290-0403-Extreme-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
I wouldn't say I put it through a really heavy gauntlet of use, but it is holding up well, has a ton of function buttons, and feels comfortable and effective. I'd recommend it for all of that plus the fairly low price.
Check to make sure that the controller is actually working on PC by calibrating it or using it in another game. Make sure all of your keys are bound correctly.
If the problem is actually on ARMA's end, I'd just recommend getting a joystick for flight. IMO it's much better than a controller, and has many more buttons.
A good and cheap joystick is the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro. Me and two other friends have it, and we love it. Only $35 and gives you a lot of functionality.
No, I'm talking like this but where the hat switch is a full analog thumbstick. There would be 2 of these controllers. With 1 you could, for example, walk backwards, aim left arm NW, shoot with trigger. With the other you could, for example, look right (line-of-site game), aim right arm NE, shoot with trigger. It's a top-down-line-of-site-full-motion-dual-weilding game.
I got this one and it works pretty good. You can control the thrusters with that little back and forth paddle. And a ton of the keys are mapped to it.
I tend to use my joystick and the WASD keys to control my thrusters and side to side strafing.
Since always are fools for pay any price, nothing "wrong" with this IsaacTronics price - specially for a discontinued product. :)
The only joystick that Logitech continue "manufacturing" (by 3rd party OEM) - besides re-pack Saitek's - is this:
> HOTAS
regarding joystick, I suggest you try this:
that is to say, if the HOTAS joystick is a little expensive for you.
This one is a good bang for your buck, and gets the job done quite nicely if you dont mind keeping a hand on the keyboard.
I got this one as a temporary one and have had it for about 2 years (not so temporary!) https://smile.amazon.com/Logitech-963290-0403-Extreme-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_2?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1484259058&sr=1-2&keywords=joystick
There's a keyboard/mouse player around here that routinely posts screenshots where's he's up like 10-0 in a sim EC match, so it's definitely possible to play with no equipment investment. Once you're hooked you'll never go back.
That said, if you come to like sim, I highly recommend picking up any crappy joystick, e.g. this $25 logitech, and use your mouse in your left hand to look around. I started with that exact combo and it's totally workable. P.S. start with the spitfire line. Trust me.
Haven't used it but I've been basing my opinion based off videos on youtube like this one for example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKuO9M0WuMg
Plus I read A LOT of reviews on steam and the general consensus that I got was that it is great for anything other than FPS, unless you want that controller feel Also, a lot of the reviews talk about how they break fairly easily and I'm not the best at holding my temper during PVP games
It is on sale for 35$ right now and that's couple dollars more for a brand new joystick so maybe you'll convince somebody else looking at this post but not me
I am really feeling (amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/) + a mouse would be optimal for me if I knew it was going to work
> not looking for the complexity of FSX
FSX can be as simple or as complex as you'd like. You can load up the game, not touch any options, then hit the big "fly now" button and be up in the air within minutes. Or you can buy all the payware aircraft and addons and spend up to 30 minutes sitting on the ramp learning how to start up your bird.
My suggestion (since this is how I did it) start with all the default, free stuff and fly around some places you know in real life. Then if you've decided you're serious about this, slowly begin adding in some extra stuff. I suggest picking up the Logitech 3D Pro joystick and FSX: Steam Edition when it goes on sale.
You don't always need to set the axis to it. A lot of them have an analog stick where your thumb would be.
Like this. Though it is for right-handers.
I use this Logitech stick and it's quite nice for the price. Plenty of buttons, too.
If you're unsure of what you want in a stick I'd actually recommend the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro. It's cheap, but functional. It will develop increasingly severe sensitivity issues over time that will require progressively larger deadzones to be set as the stick ages, but in that time you will also get a better feeling for how playing with a stick feels, and get a better sense of what you want in a stick if you decide to pull the trigger on something more expensive.
I play with a cheap logitech joystick, ($40) and a keyboard. It works real well, for me anyway. The keyboard thrust controls are pretty straight forward, W to accelerate S to decelerate, R to climb and F to descend. For everything else this guy has more than enough triggers/buttons. It feels solid too, nice heavy base and smooth pitch/yaw etc.
The $32 Logitech Extreme 3D Pro ( http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U ) is what I ended up with and it's like the minimum acceptable and usable, the stick for me has the perfect balance of spring strength letting me aim fine in a hurry, the sensitivity of the twist (rudder control) is optimal also.
Bought mine used for €5 at a second hand shop and lo and behold after some exercise of the pots it's flawless. Can confirm the T1600 sticks get a lot of love from WT pilots too. I would like to learn how the stick in the HOTAS X is compared to Extreme 3D Pro, I need that strength in the throw.
If I'm not worried about ambidexterity, how might it compare to the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro?
Have you considered something like a Logitech Joystick? It has a rigid D-pad on the top and a regular joystick (link).
Honestly, you probably just need a joystick. It's difficult to make the fine control inputs needed to land without one. I use this. It's not fancy, but it works.
I'd also recommend learning on something smaller. IRL pilots start on small GA aircraft for a reason. They're much easier to control.
I use a Logitech Extreme 3d Pro , it's not the best stick but for $30 it's a great way to get your feet wet without dropping $400 on something you might use a dozen times, I plan on upgrading at some point (I really want a throttle quadrant) but for now it does fine. Using the 6 buttons on the side as modifiers I mapped all of the A-10 HOTAS controls and other important commands (Gear, Flaps, etc) entirely to the stick.
I use the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro joystick. It has an excellent setup that doesn't take up much space. The joystick itself twists, giving you easy YAW control with the same hand you're pitching and rolling with, seamlessly. It also has plenty of buttons to bind pretty much everything you need to do for flight, including a throttle paddle, and 8 button HAT switch on top, making lateral and horizontal thrusters as easily accessible as pitch and roll (literally pitch and roll with your hand, and horizontal/lateral with the thumb of that same hand). The HAT switch also switches to menu navigation mode if you open the navigation or ship menu's up during flight, so you use the hat switch like up and down arrow keys to use your ship's UI. The only thing I ever need to use my keyboard for is "J" and "H" for supercruise and jumps, then "ENTER" for stowing hardpoints. Literally everything else is on the joystick. Oh, and I also use the mouse for headmovement unless my Track IR is plugged in.
Here's a link to what it looks like. It goes for $30-$40 bucks on Amazon: Joystick
Also, there's a binding scheme already made by another user that you just download and copy into your bindings folder which sets your entire layout up perfectly.
If you already have a full setup and are looking for something simple I would just go to your local best buy and pick up a Logitech Extreme 3D pro. They are only ~$30 and are pretty darn good.
From what I read, no, but it is nice. Logitech makes a solid one.
A note on the game though, it is a bit shallow at the moment, and content is being added in. Make sure you read some reviews before you buy.
Have you thought about using a joystick instead of a wheel? I use the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro, bought it specifically for this game. The joystick is used for steering and acceleration/braking, and the buttons on the joystick can be used for common task (shifting, cruise control, wipers, lights), the joystick hat can be used for looking left and right...and that's all with one hand! You can use the other hand for your keyboard keys and mouse (mouse for lining up those beautiful screenshots usually is the only reason you use it).
It may not help because no money is still no money... but...
Logitech Extreme Pro is relatively cheap - I got mine on sale for $20 so if you look around you can find one of these relatively cheap.
So, I recently bought Assassin's Creed: Unity.
...I think I'll be giving the internet more heed next time.
In other news I also recently got a joystick (this one), any good games I could get to go with it? The only game I have that it's viable for so far is Strike Suit Zero, really.
I agree with /u/FoShizzle01. This is perhaps the most common joystick used in this game.. and only $30!
I tried playing with the ps4 controller and it felt like I didn't have enough control to make accurate shots. The keyboard/mouse should do you just fine once you get used to it though!
I use this one Logitech 3d pro
It's inexpensive and so far worked pretty well. I'm not a super serious simmer so until I get to that desire $30 to be able to control my plane better than a PS2 / Xbox controller is worth it.
What's your budget.. if you want a good solid starter joystick I'd say grab this one. The logitech Extreme 3D It's under $30 and is a solid workhouse. It's not as insane as some of them out there but it's very affordable before you sink 100's of dollars into something that you decide you're bored of.
To be honest, I've never been able to make it through a singleplayer campaign due to bugs, so i just started jumping into multiplayer matches and really began to enjoy the game. If you let people know that you are trying to learn how to play correctly, they will be generally patient with you. If you want someone to play with sometime, send me a message.
That is the mission with mortars landing all around you right? The person you are trying to locate is dead on the second floor of a building that has several crows circling above it.
I use a cheap logitech joystick. Cheap but it has plenty of buttons, 3-axis stick, and works pretty well. There are some keymappings you will want to change for better vehicle handling. Again, just send me a msg if you want some help setting things up.
I got a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro. Playing TIE-fighter all over again is fantastic. Tons of memories and the gameplay is still rock solid.
I don't know why they don't make space sims anymore. :/
I use this. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009OY9U/ref=s9_simh_gw_p23_d0_g23_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=147EHKTPJJMZMD9CQHVP&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846 It more than gets the job done and its really solid.
get one of those.. i have it and its sooooo awesome
the pedals are incorporated by twisting left or right.
- For a joystick, Logitech 3d Pro (https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U) is about 30-40 dollars in several places right now. I personally don't use a throttle with it, but a lot of people recommend having one for 'realism.' But the logi is about as basic as you can get while still being a really good all around stick. I also use it for Elite, FS2020, and Arma to great effect. They start to get wonky after a few years because of how they detect movement, but for your first budget stick it will last you long enough to decide if you want to upgrade to something like a T16000m or Fighterstick.
- Wait for a sale and get the module you really want. If you want to learn more about how the game works, the base game comes with the SU-25T which is a very capable AG aircraft with plenty of complexity. It is, however, low fidelity. So that means no clicking buttons in the cockpit. As an alternative/supplement, I would really REALLY suggest the A4 Skyhawk mod. Just download and copy to where it says in the description, and it's ready to go. A4 requires no other modules, is completely free, and has a full immersion cockpit (clicking all the buttons!). It's a FANTASTIC way to get used to the game's complexity.
- While you're waiting for a sale, you can try each of the modules for up to two weeks for free. This, plus the Skyhawk, should keep you busy enough until a good sale comes around. Use the trials to figure out which modules are right for you. I usually recommend the F/A-18 or F-16 for new people as they're very good all-around aircraft, but they're some of the most expensive, too. The F-14 is also very fun, but it's more specialized for Air to Air with more limited ground options.
- Controller... yes and no. They work. Just as proof of concept, I tried to get mine set up and I could do all the things, but it felt really weird and was more complicated. You'll still need a keyboard and mouse anyway to click the clicky clickers. ALso, if you're using an Xbox controller, the freelook camera is an "absolute camera" which means that if you want to look left and KEEP looking left, you need to keep the stick pointed in that direction. Letting go of the stick snaps your view back to center, so in a dogfight or while tracking a ground target it's really REALLY awkward.
Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lSykFbVREKZY6 - This is a decent but cheap flight stick with a yaw axis.
Depends on what you use the sim for. I would highly highly recommend having rudder control, because without it you’re missing out on simulating a pretty essential real life control surface responsible for the following:
Turning during taxiing (with autorudder you could turn the yoke / stick instead I guess, but that’s really unrealistic, especially considering that in real life in crosswind taxiing conditions you’ll often turn the yoke to one side while taxiing straight).
Maintaining coordinated turns (when you turn, you want to essentially ensure that the body of the airplane remains parallel to the ground to stay coordinated and complete a smooth turn. Rudder pedals keep you in a coordinated turn by moving your nose left and right within a turn. If your nose is pointed upward out of a turn, it’s called “slipping”, and if your nose is pointed inward on a turn (or downward), it’s called “skidding”. I think if there is an autorudder setting it will do this for you, but something to think about). https://cdn.boldmethod.com/images/learn-to-fly/aerodynamics/slip-skid/slip-3d.jpg https://cdn.boldmethod.com/images/learn-to-fly/aerodynamics/slip-skid/skid-3d.jpg
Important Maneuvers - The rudder is essential during crosswind landings. In order to stay longitudinally aligned with the runway while still moving toward the runway, you need to (1) bank / turn in the direction of the crosswind and (2) apply opposite rudder pedal to keep your nose pointed toward the runway. This keeps you on the centerline, nose facing the runway. You then maintain this correction and touch down on the crosswind-side wheel.
Another important maneuver: the foreword slip. This maneuver is great for allowing for quick descents when you need to get down quickly because you are close to the airport. It functions by deflecting the body of the airplane into the wind and creating more drag. You perform one by banking on one side and holding opposite rudder as far as you can physically push it in together to avoid a turn. The plane will start to rapidly lose speed or descend.
if you're into combat planes DCS is a free downloads and gives you a couple planes for free to start with but after that you have to buy your planes and they range anywhere from $15 to $80 but 1/2 price sales are quite frequent. The upcoming Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 you can get via gamepass for just a few dollars a month subscription. For basic gear check the stick in the link below. If you get hooked you can always save up and upgrade your pc and gear as you go. Good luck.
DCS link: https://www.digitalcombatsimulator.com/en/
MSFS2020 link: https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/microsoft-flight-simulator
That's awesome! Flight simulation is strangely enjoyable. If you'd have told me I'd have put in nearly 400 hours in the last two years sitting in a virtual cockpit and flying around the world, I'd have laughed in your face. But... here I am.
I started with FSX, which I still use mostly because I've invested so much into it. FSX is dated, 32 Bit and not the prettiest of the big three, but I've clocked more hours in it than anywhere else. It's the cheapest flight sim straight out of the box at $24.99, but there's one thing you should probably learn about flight simming.
It is not cheap.
It blew my mind after years of modding games like The Elder Scrolls and Fallout where I could mod to my heart's content without spending a dime that I had to actually buy mods. If you want to seriously get the most out of any sim though, you have to be prepared to spend some cash. The advantage, however, is that you absolutely get what you pay for. I've seen some incredible addons for Skyrim, but some of the most top-notch addons I've ever seen in anything have come from flight sim.
Here's the addons I own for FSX, to give you an idea.
- PMDG 737 Series - A Boeing-approved 737 (and variants) with hundreds of pages of documentation, giving you the closest experience you can get to flying one without actually flying it. $69.99
- FS2Crew - Simulates the experience of having a first officer in the cockpit with you. They'll talk to you, flip switches and generally do the stuff that F/Os do. Makes the sim really come alive, and probably my favorite addon. $34.95
- Ground Services X - A wonderful addon that makes the setup phase much more interesting. Includes catering, boarding, fueling, pushback, and a number of other great features. $34.00
- FSCaptain - Lets you "work" for a real airline, recording your career and grading your performance. $39.00
- Active Sky Next - Allows you to import real, live weather into your sim, or use historical weather from pretty much any point in recent history. $24.99
I've probably bought a couple more, but you get the idea. It's expensive, but the end result is stunning. You get an experience like no other. Also please don't think I'm bragging about being loaded. I am a broke college student, and the only reason why I ended up buying these addons was because I can't make good financial decisions and, at one point, every dime I made went towards flight simming (I wouldn't recommend it unless you enjoy having an empty bank account.)
I'm not saying you have to spend hundreds of dollars though. More modern sims like X-Plane 11 are loaded with content and free plugins. If I were to recommend a sim to a newcomer, I'd say XP11 all the way. If you just want to get in the cockpit and start flying, it's your best bet. Plus it looks good out of the box, and you can get photorealistic textures for free with Ortho4XP.
The other big option is Prepar3D. I've never used it, but it's my understanding that it's a more advanced version of FSX. It has a lot of the same addons as FSX, such as the PMDG series of planes. I can't say much about it since I've never owned it, though.
Conclusion:
- FSX is my personal choice, just because I've spent so much on it and because it's still a solid sim 12 years later.
- X-Plane 11 is the best choice for newcomers.
- FSX (and by extension, P3D) is the best for paid addons. XP is lacking in that department.
EDIT: I completely forgot to address the joystick problem. I flew for 150+ hours with either a mouse or an Xbox controller, and while that was doable it became far more enjoyable with a flight stick. I have a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro and it's brilliant. It's also cheap (as flight sticks go). Highly recommend it if you're serious about flight simming (and it's great for helicopters in Arma too!).
What's your price limit for a joystick? This is the model I have, it's fairly cheap and it's been working great for me for over 5 years now.
If you're using Knossos then setting up an Xbox controller should just be a matter of linking it to your computer and then going to joystick settings and selecting the controller. If that doesn't work or you have other questions or problems then I recommend going over to the Discord, where the Freespace Open devs will be able to help.
I've used an older version of this:
https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
Worked OK with Star Wars Trilogy Arcade. May have to tweak a bit.
Affordable at under $40.
I use the Logitech Extreme 3D and like it a lot.
Amazon currently has 18 left in stock.
I bought this one on Amazon, under $30 Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_cychxbZ0Q2S15
Logitech Extreme 3D Pro + some keyboard controls for landing gear, lights, and other non-essential things will likely be sufficient IMO. $40 is pretty good price.
I've also used the T16000M HOTAS found it to be overkill for a not-VR setup.
You need HOTAS for VR, a simple joystick (or two) is good enough for playing the game on a normal screen.
Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_OdJ3FbXGMEXBE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
There is two links here.
It might be a bit expected, but I really recommend the extreme 3d pro.
It has a throttle, 12 buttons (I'm pretty sure you won't ever need more), you can control the view with your thumb (There is a little thumbstick on the top of the stick) and from what I have heard it is just a very good stick.
If you buy this you shouldn't need more.
IIRC even PhlyDaily uses/used this stick.
EDIT
Yep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_W5e8pj0wHE&channel=PhlyDaily
Though it seems like he still uses headtracking and doesn't use the 6 buttons on the side but instead he uses his keyboard.
You can get it for €45-€50 and on Amazon for $32.
If you really want a seperate throttle stick, you can get the Thrustmaster Flight Hotas X.
It costs pretty much the same (Though the Logitech extreme 3d pro is waaaay cheaper on Amazon for some reason) but it doesn't have the same thumbstick to control the view, so it would require you to use the keyboard or headtracking.
Are you looking for just a stick or a HOTAS? The RSI forums have some good discussions on this topic, including this one.
I've personally tried a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro, a Cyborg 3D, and Thrustmaster T-Flight, and I prefer the Logitech primarily due to the ergonomics (though the quality also feels decent). For only $35 on Amazon, this is what I'd go with if you're just looking for a joystick without the HOTAS.
I was gonna recommend him a Logitech Xtreme3d Pro because they are typically pretty cheap, but when I went to look one up I'm only seeing them for around $90 - which is way too much, it should be $50.
Am i missing something? Did everyone raise the price of joysticks/yokes since MSFS came out?
https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
I had one of these for 10 years until I decided to spend more on a nice yoke. Looks like there might be out of stock issues but it's your best bet for under $70 all in. Got a Z axis for rudder control as well as a throttle knob.
I'm right handed, and use the mouse (logitech g700) with my right to aim.
Left hand uses a Logitech Extreme 3D pro, and it fits my hand pretty well for a right handed joystick.
Get a pair of these for 60 bucks (for both! $30 ea).
https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
See if you like dual sticks, and then buy something more expensive, althought totally not neccessary. I actually bought 2 pair of the 3D Pros... one pair for my office, one pair for my main gaming machine. Been using them for 2 years now, and love them. Not a care in the world about breaking them. They are 2 right handers, so it takes a bit getting used to, but now i don't even notice.
I have a pair of T16k's also, but they crapped out on me like they do everyone else.
One day, when Star Citizen gets a bit more finished, and I build my sim pit i'll get something more expensive, but for noo the 3D Pros work great for me.
I rock one of these cheap bad boys https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U with the keyboard for thrusters and other controls.
The logitech one is cheap as hell and works. It's not high quality or anything, but as a filthy casual I really enjoy it.
https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
By a lot of money you mean $31?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Logitech Extreme 3d pro
Really cheap intro to HOSAS. I got two of them last week when they were down to 20 each. Both are right handed but I didn't have any issue using one left handed. I'm not as good with them as M+K yet but I can do bounties with them. Haven't messed with sensitivity curves yet. Needed to setup everything for the left stick and swap yaw and roll on the right stick in star citizen.
Super cheap and will last you a minute. I had a Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas and it didn't have enough buttons for me and a throttle doesn't give an analogue control for the 3 axis it controls. Hosas is definitely the way to go between the two
The best entry level gear IMO is a good joystick:
https://vkbcontrollers.com/?product_cat=gladiator-nxt-joysticks
(you can fly GA, airliners, helicopters, gliders etc) and a set of rudder pedals:
https://www.amazon.com/Pedalset-Thrustmaster-Flight-Rudder-Pedals/dp/B01649IVI8/
That's really all you need right now.
When you get more experienced maybe get the full honeycomb bravo throttle.
​
Also wait for x-plane 12
Second/ left hand stick was my first stick I ever owned, a $20 Logitech 3D extreme pro.
As for controls, it would depend on how much you're willing to spend. At the bottom end you can pick up a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro for $20 and that alone will be miles better than using a keyboard. The next step up would be a HOTAS system; the Thrustmaster T.16000M is a good entry-level one at under $200 that you could get plenty of use out of -- Logitech makes some as well. I think many simmers never go further than a decent HOTAS, with the possible addition of rudder pedals.
If you want something a little bit nicer the Honeycomb kit mentioned below is really nice for the price, a lot better quality than the cruddy Logitech yoke and throttles you can pick up. The Alpha and Bravo are my current main controls and I'm really happy with them; together they will run you close to $600 though, and you'll need to add something for rudder control since there's no twist-stick to use. Plus they can be hard to get a hold of, although I think availability is improving.
Those are the main things you'd be looking at, short of going into super-pricey specialist gear.
For education, one thing I can recommend is watching the series of videos that Jayne, the MSFS community manager, did with an actual flight instructor. She was someone with no flight experience and they trained her up over a series of Twitch streams from the steam-gauge 152, to the glass-cockpit 172, and now moving on to more complex craft. They can be a little longwinded, since they're unedited live streams, but they're fun.
Here's the 152 playlist and the 172 one.
$30.43
https://www.amazon.ca/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
This joystick, the Logitech Extreme 3d Pro, is under $60 and was the beginner joystick for many of us. It has twist which allows for rudder control, and has a small throttle on it too. It's pretty much the best you can do at the $60 pricepoint. T.Flight Hotas X I think is a little more expensive, and you'd have to sort out rudder control eventually, but is an option to consider anyway.
why not buy a cheap flight stick?
I started with this: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
then moved on to this: https://www.amazon.com/Thrustmaster-T-Flight-Hotas-4-playstation/dp/B07DLKVKD5
and now i use this: https://www.amazon.com/Thrustmaster-T16000M-FCS-Flight-Pack/dp/B01N2PE8CZ
Here ya go. Damn thing is under $20 now! I’ve had this joystick for over 10 years. I first got the Thrustmaster Warthog HOTAS setup…amazing quality. Just took up way too much space on my (then) small desk. Eventually settled on the Honeycomb Alpha / Bravo + Logitech rudder pedals. Know what I’ve kept the whole time? The Logitech joystick. It has enough buttons, a twist grip throttle, and a thumb throttle. The only thing I did about a year or so ago was add the Logitech throttle quadrant (3 levers). Still have that one too! :)
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows - Black/Silver https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_X6KXT26GMKQNKMR77BKJ
Don’t spend a ton of cash until you’re sure you like flight sims. It’s a slippery slope… my current setup, minus the rudder pedals
I don't know anything about this joystick/mouse but it might work for your needs. Hope this helps.
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_6H8GVB32EK61KNMAQJ13
I know you say you lack a proper setup, but you don't need VIRPL hardware, or high end Thrustmaster joystick and throttle to play. Hit up Amazon and buy a basic 30 dollar joystick. Start there with just the control stick and keyboard.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_RMTTBJP4GKEC5RWC7SQP
Link to Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick, not an affiliate link. Just the first thing that came up for joystick, and I picked it because it did have a throttle and several extra buttons.
I love to look on in awe of the super cockpits and control rigs other players have set, and dream of having a setup I can switch between fixed wing and rotorcraft someday, but I appreciate the X56 a friend gifted me. Its enough.
If you are playing on PC, get a joystick. It will help up your game, a good starting one if you do not have would be this; Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows - Black/Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_DWB73FDNMDWC2XXH4N48?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I currently use the old version of this one; Logitech X52 Flight Control System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QYQVQFS/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_M4Q3832ECVED65D03NMN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1.
But no matter how you play welcome commander good luck on all your endeavors.
No prob! I know a lot of other Cmdrs use them.
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows - Black/Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_GKZRGV6BBT41PJZB7TJ7
A friend bought me the game ages ago but couldn't get into it with mouse and keyboard. Got a joystick for Christmas and started playing it. Same friend bought me the odyssey portion on the game. I very much enjoy the game now.
If you're on a budget, this the joystick i recently got.
in my expirence it was impossible to use the mouse, luckly I had an old thrustmasters joystick and used that. I know have a honeycomb and use that and the joystick. Consider getting a cheap joystick from Amazon.
this is sposed to be a good one: Joystick
I have this one and I loved it one beacoise it comes with a throttle: What I have (joystick with throttle)
or get a yoke though you might want to get rudder pedals: Yoke
(joysticks have a rudder twist thing the yoke does not)
sorry I can’t help with you’re problem this might be a good way to go though joystiks and yokes make it way more fun.
Look at that,, ut was the first thing that came up on Google. Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows - Black/Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_XJJV5S9RAM4T21MPTBJF
Try using the dev version (it's just as stable as the "stable" version for me). Also, a joystick is well worth it and only $30.
Yea absolutely do not use mouse/keys. Regardless of whether or not the mapping is wonky in game (to my knowledge it is not). You can find a totally reasonable and extremely inexpensive model online for like 30 bucks usd. Here's what I bought while waiting for my good one: https://www.amazon.ca/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=joystick&qid=1638314847&sr=8-6&th=1
That's the Canadian Amazon. US has it also though no issue.
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro Joystick for Windows - Black/Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_VQE6DZCNGPSE81CF1QHV
Before you give up on mousejoy, check out this guide to flying sim with mousejoy. You might also want to look into cheap headtracking.
It's possible to fly sim with a controller, which is probably the cheapest way to get into sim with analog input. /u/TheWingalingDragon has a good guide here on setting up a controller for sim.
If you're really interested in picking up a stick, you have three options: Logitech Extreme 3D Pro, Thrustmaster T.16000M FCS, or VKB Gladiator NXT. I'll cover them in turn.
Extreme 3D Pro: Cheapest option by far, but you get what you pay for. Very basic functionality, it uses low-quality sensors that mean you'll need to tweak settings a fair bit to get it useable, and it will wear out and become less accurate over time. Still, if you absolutely cannot spend any more than the minimum, this is it.
T.16000M FCS: The former reigning champion of price/performance, but since it jumped from $50 to $80 it's lost a lot of that edge. The cheapest stick you can get that employs magnetic sensors. Functionality is basic, but sensor quality is very good. If you can't afford the next stick, this is the one I would strongly recommend instead.
Gladiator NXT. Magnetic sensors, good build quality, loads of switches for every situation. This is pretty much the best entry-level stick you can get. The standard grip comes with three hat switches, a pinky switch, thumb switch, pickle switch, and index finger switch, plus trigger. The premium grip replaces the thumb switch with a 4-way clickable hat switch, upgrades one of the face hat switches to a full analog ministick, and adds a rapid-fire trigger above the main trigger.
Just so you will have it...here is the link to the Logitech joystick I commented on.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009OY9U/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This is a very inexpensive logitech joystick i use. Works very well.
I use a Logitech 3D Pro which was, like $35, and then some logitech G29 pedals I already had with a leo-bodnar G25, G27, G29, G920 to USB adapter for £23.99 + shipping and taxes.
I'd say best thing and cheapest thing you can do with that mouse id this - https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=logitech+joystick+3d&qid=1615475127&s=instant-video&sr=1-1 - I've had mine for well over a decade now still works but think I'm going to upgrade to the Gladiator NXT (premium) soon
Deal link: Amazon
[This](https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=logitech+extreme+3d+pro&qid=1613897992&sr=8-1) is what I've got. Had the Thrustmaster Warthog setup with rudder and everything. LOL I'm just not hardcore enough for that, nor did I have the desk space.
The Logitech joystick works great. You can map the buttons (12 I think, so it's not ridiculous).
A lot of times brick and mortar just tell you to go online through their store website to order it; which ends up being more expensive than just using Amazon, for the exact same product. For example, a joystick I was looking at to replace my old one that is not compatible with USB adapters due to hardware limitations; Staples, vs Amazon.
It can be fairly negligible on an item to item basis, but when you combine shopping from multiple stores into just going through Amazon, I can understand the appeal; especially if you then take into account when you don't hit the free shipping threshold from one particular store.
No, you can use M&KB. However if you have even an Xbox controller I would very highly recommend you use that instead. While yoke and pedal definitely heighten the experience, you don't need them. I'm not one to advocate often for having to spend additional money to truly enjoy the game, but the absolute best investment you can make is a cheap joystick (~ $50 USD). If you're gonna be playing this game more than once or twice a month it's absolutely worth it. If you really can't afford it, then Xbox controller would also be better than M&KB :)
Yes! Fs2020 has multiplayer natively integrated
We don't know about full missions like they had in FSX but as of yesterday we have confirmation of landing and approach challenges as well as a flight school mode where you go up and the game teaches you how to fly.
No, everything is unlocked from the start. Paintjobs (we call them liveries!) are usually free and made by the community, though it may be a few weeks until we start seeing those released.
There are absolutely different playstyles, especially when connected to the network, they have a realistic mode whereby you should fly by the rules and a casual mode where you can do whatever and they separate that playerbase to appease to both sides: realist simmers and casual gamers. You can also choose to go through proper procedures when starting up and flying (i.e. set all dials, know how to turn on the engines etc.) but you can also choose a quick start whereby all you have to control is your throttle and your flight controls (yoke or joystick). The game makes it easy for you to choose which playstyle you want too -- if you're interested in knowing what some of the buttons do but not every minute detail, you can choose the "simple" checklist and therefore you still get the experience of starting up your plane but without all the meticulous stuff you would actually have to do in real life.
That got rather long but let me know if you have any more questions!
Late sorry but this is my preferred flight stick: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/
It's actually better than other more expensive options in my opinion. The control isn't as precise but I challenge someone to actually prove they can tell the difference. It has much nicer construction, much better button layout, and much better button feedback.
I use it in conjunction with the FCS Throttle that comes with this kit: https://www.amazon.com/ThrustMaster-2960778-Thrustmaster-T16000M-HOTAS/dp/B01KCHPRXA
I don't use the stick from that kit anymore because a) it feels bad in the hand, b) the trigger button broke (a common problem), and c) the button layout is rubbish and they feel cheap.
If you want one just to get you by, this is fairly inexpensive:
https://www.amazon.ca/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_1
If you want realism, it'll cost you. Really depends what you want. Proper and realistic yoke vs. Thrustmaster style joystick with custom buttons, etc.
This is a solid kit that won't break the bank, but I wouldn't call it cheap.
https://www.amazon.ca/Thrustmaster-T16000M-FCS-Flight-Pack/dp/B01N2PE8CZ?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_4
I'm also investigating this one... no rudder pedals, but looks like a simple and cost effective kit:
https://www.logitechg.com/en-ca/products/flight/flight-simulator-yoke-system.945-000023.html
If anyone is looking, it's available from Amazon right now
+1 for the extreme 3d pro; looks like amazon has it in stock if you're in USA https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
Logitech Extreme 3D Pro, War Thunder has a preset profile for it in the setup wizard. You can buy the same stick on Amazon for about $40
Edit: Added link-https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_xD7DEbTCPY8SS
I first got the game back in 2015, and played for a while. It was fun to fly around doing some missions, such as mining, fighting pirates, and running errands. I kinda gave up on it, and played other things that were coming out. I recently binged The Expanse, and it made me want to play this again. So many updates that it made it like a new game to me. This is probably a long answer to your first question; yes, it's still worth it.
Admittedly, there are a lot of controls to maneuver your ship, and navigating within the subsystem of your menus. Still, after about an hour or so of playing, you know how to get around rather quickly. You can get a better feel for it with a HOTAS, but it's not required. I have the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro joystick (Amazon), and it helps keeping a lot of the quick-action keys mapped to the joystick than the keyboard.
> I was looking for something to fly around, chill, do some missions, and not get involved with pvp.
This is exactly that; you don't have to get involved with PvP/PvE fighting at all. There are some systems that are peaceful, and you're simply mining resources as missions you pick up. You can also do courier missions, transferring data between systems, or doing tours with passengers. Some of those tours pay $1M+ when you have to take 20+ people. If a pirate starts extraditing you during supercruise, stay focused on the escape vector, and you'll keep going on about your way.
You can also get Horizons and explore a planet's surface, then sell your findings and mappings to other systems. Go to the "Unexplored (something)" in the map, and put your name on some stuff. You don't need Horizons to discover unexplored areas in a system, but you will if you plan on going down to the planet.
There is definitely a passive lifestyle to the game, but you will need to do missions to have funding for fuel and upgrades. Your first ship, the Sidewinder, is always free, but not good for much more than getting you started with a few missions. Running some short travel missions (data courier is easiest), can be quite the payout if you do multiple at the same time for the same destination system. You can also look at the Star Map when looking at a delivery, to determine if you can daisy chain your jumps between systems. They don't take up cargo space, so it's to your ship's ability for travel. Seems rare, but I've only gotten a request for expedited delivery (usually within the next 30 minutes) about 3 or 4 times, and it adds a few thousand credits to the payout.
Try this: https://www.monect.com/
Disclaimer: haven't used it myself but I have used something that incorporated the same tech to test out a TrackIR alternative but with a phone. Also, for additional research maybe search for "phone joystick gyro android/iphone" and should lead you to other software. Monect was just the first one to pop up.
If budget is an issue with a yoke/joystick just save up some cash and get yourself a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick. I consider this one of my best purchases since it has lasted me so long (10+ year) and still works to this day though I have upgraded to an x52 pro. You can pick one up on Amazon for $34 USD (https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/)
All of the advice given here is great about what software to buy. The game is absolutely playable with mouse and keyboard, and a lot of the top combat pilots prefer it. However, if you care about immersion I highly recommend at least a flight stick, if not a HOTAS.
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Those links are the most commonly recommended entry level flight stick/HOTAS. The stick is only $33 and the HOTAS is $55. I used the 3d pro for a couple years and loved it
The <strong><em>Logitech Extreme 3D Pro</em></strong> is still available. If it works for you, why change?
Okay, thanks. Picked up this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009OY9U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. Will it work?
To this day the X-Wing series are some of my all time favorite games. You may be interested to know that the series is for sale at Good Old Games and works on modern PCs.
https://www.gog.com/game/star_wars_xwing_special_edition
Having purchased them when they came out, I have to say... the graphics are as bad as you think, but the gameplay is still as sweet as you remember.
Edit: And if you can't find your old joystick, they're still sold on Amazon... I have this one. Edit2: lol, out of stock. >< Here's some others.
In my opinion, not really. Just get a cheap one. This is the one I use.
The Logitech Extreme 3D Pro is an affordable entry-level stick. However it uses potentiometers and has a plastic-plastic bearing surface, so you should expect less accuracy than other systems, and a much shorter lifespan. It takes a bit more fiddling to get set up correctly than other sticks, due to the loose tolerances. However, if you're willing to put in the time tuning the config, it's not bad.
The Thrustmaster T16000M is somewhat more expensive, but uses hall sensors and tends to have better tolerances. If you have the extra cash to spare, I'd recommend it over the logitech.
If anything get a basic logitech joystick
Logitech Extreme 3D Pro is pretty good for a cheap stick. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009OY9U/
Cheap and does everything you need: https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-963290-0403-Extreme-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487021927&sr=8-1
Better than that even!
A GREAT stick, for just $34.99 This is the best stick on the market for ED - bar none. You'll note I said it's the best for ED - it's not the best for flight simulation, which ED isn't!
Then, when you have become accustomed to using a stick, which can take a while (think "gentle", and "subtle") you will have saved enough to buy the best throttle ever made.
I don't think this is possible, but I feel like I have to point out that a joystick is definately the way to go for enthusiastic simmers. I recommend that you get this great deal for a surprisingly good joystick. (17.49$ for Logitech extreme 3d pro)
Thanks /u/OfficialShip2000 for this post
Edit:formatting
instead of simply Stick + Keyboard why not Joystick + Throttle.
This one for Joystick https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
This one for the Throttle https://www.amazon.com/Thrustmaster-TWCS-Throttle-Controller-Pc/dp/B01L28LVUG
you should Check out DCS. its a flight sim. you can get into it with a $30 usd joystick logitech por 3d or a bit more ($15 more for a better one) the thrustmaster. anyways. DCS is free and you get 2 free planes. even if you dont fly right now im sure it will look great with the vive. its the only reason i want one really. i hear the oculous rift may be better for sims but i also want room experiance so yea vive.
So, a very generous person gifted me a set of CH pro pedals. Problem is that I don't have any kind of HOTAS setup yet. I am heavily leaning towards a double joystick+pedals setup.
Thing is that I'm not flush with cash at the moment after building my rig and doing a bunch of work/favors on the side to earn enough cash for my Vive+1080 FTW. I was always going to wait on a HOTAS setup for a bit but these pedals pretty much fell right into my lap and now I am tempted to get some joysticks... I've seen these on Amazon and as I understand they are even the default joystick for star citizen. They are pretty cheap and have great reviews. So my question is would it be ok for me to get two of those or just wait and save money for a better pair? I'm a big advocate of waiting and saving on something that is better quality/worthwhile.
But at the same time, this would be my first time using a full HOTAS. My father in law had me try to fly a glider in his, what had to be gimped, old flight sim rig with just one cheap joystick and throttle and it was one of the most boring things I've ever done... But I also had this feeling like there is lots of potential there and I could get hooked. I don't know if that makes sense lol.
Anyway, I think what I'm trying to say is I don't know if I should spend tons on something I don't know if I will fall in love with right off the bat. But at the same time I want to make sure I am giving it a fair shot and want an experience that isn't really gimped.
Oh and what VR games would work with gamepad + paddles? Or do I need to get joysticks? was thinking about picking up Elite or House of the dying sun.
I've asked these same questions other places and haven't really gotten an answer so I figured I'd post here before I made a thread. :/ Don't fail me Reddit!
Personally I use two joysticks like these: https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U You get so much control. You can get 360 noscopes across the map if you know how to use them!
I would argue that you could get away with using the Extreme 3D Pro for ED.
HOTAS really should only be used for flight sims like DCS imo. So if you are interested in those as well, I've personally had issues with the X52 Saitek, and even then you should only get that if you are SERIOUS about flight sim. But based on your post I'd wager you aren't, so I would go with the T-Flight Hotas X
> not all of us can afford a really nice joystick
Good joystick: usually 30-60$ http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463167592&sr=8-1&keywords=Logitech+Extreme+3D+Pro+Joystick%2C+Silver%2FBlack
Good gaming mouse: usually 40-80$ http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Proteus-Spectrum-Tunable-910-004615/dp/B019OB663A/ref=sr_1_2?s=videogames&ie=UTF8&qid=1463167610&sr=1-2&keywords=logitech+g502
¯\(ツ)/¯
Nah, get a Thrustmaster ideally, or try the Logitic 3D, it's cheap and I personally use and enjoy it.
I use a Logitech Extreme 3D and a Logitech G13 instead of a HOTAS. I have never used a HOTAS but after reading a bit of reviews of the cheaper models and considering the fact that I don't play simulators enough (but do play MMOs and RPGS) I think I have found a versatile set of controllers.
Instead of a throttle like in a HOTAS I just just the analog joystick on the G13 for forward/backward thrust. I find that in Elite I'm always shifting from full forward to full backward or somewhere in between so fast that I imagine having a large pivot on my throttle would be obnoxious. One downside is when I want to set a certain throttle (like cruise control) I have to bind 2 more keys to a +10 and -10 throttle setting. Luckily as soon as I use the joystick to control thrust it automatically cancels my throttle and the G13 stick takes control.
I would easily recommend my setup to anyone who has another use for the G13 outside of Elite.
http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
That's a really flimsy joystick. It broke (within 2 weeks of purchase) the first time it fell from the top of my table.
I use a $30 joystick. It's MUCH more fun than kb/m flying.
- Get a cheap Logitech joystick, pedals aren't really that necessary but they're a nice touch. Also, I'd recommend TrackIR as a moderately cheap head tracking system. Alternatively, you don't really need head tracking all that desperately, a hat switch can serve you better than you might first think. Know that you really don't need that much to have a fun experience, but you need to know that you like it first.
- SB in WT isn't like it was historically. Almost all combat is below 2km and turn fighting is the primary tactic. For that reason, the Zero is king.
WT SB is a good starting point, but if you like it I'd recommend you broaden your horizons and purchase IL2: Battle of Stalingrad or its the new Battle of Moscow expansion that is still under development but almost complete.
As for tips, take a look at GrmlZ's videos. Disregard what he's actually talking about and watch the gameplay to learn how he flies; once you understand SB and have had some practice, start listening to his discussion which is pretty good and relevant for the development of the gamemode.
newegg with tomb raider.
This one is good and cheap, been using it for War Thunder and KSP: http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
Awesome! I currently have the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick but I really want to have a HOTAS set up. I've been looking at the T Flight HOTAS, but I'm also considering saving up and going for either the Saitex X52 or the Saitex X55.
I just picked up one of these to replace my old force feedback stick, and it works just fine for pretty cheap: http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U
$30 new and before shipping costs http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-3D-Pro-Joystick-Windows/dp/B00009OY9U/ or step $15 upwards to get some impressive modern tech http://www.amazon.com/Hercules-2960706-Thrustmaster-T-16000M-Flight/dp/B001S0RTU0/
This would probably be fine for Galaga.
Logitech Joystick
Because it's in beta and they haven't set up the everything for the controls? Try playing without the joystick, not really all that gamebreaking that you can't use one. I'm also pretty sure they just did an update for the joysticks have you tried it recently?
Edit: In case your x52 doesn't end up working for it it does work for the pretty cheap 30$ Logitech Extreme 3D Pro Joystick. Works with dual set up for these as well. Not saying you should have to pay an extra 60$ to play the game but it now works with a much larger variety of joysticks than it did a while back.
Edit 2: I found a thread for the x52 that might help you. Here the comment at the bottom shows that the x52 has a setup that's different than most.
This is the one I had, though I intend to get a better one: http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
It has a throttle lever on it.
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
Sounds like you found the product. It's on sale for 30, normally 40. So combine that and a vat, and that's probably the normal UK price.
Is this the 3D Pro you're referring to?
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
This is a really good one (for the price). I've got one at home, but you can get them new for $30 so you might be better off buying it new.
I've been looking into getting a joystick as well. What I'm guessing is that set-up shouldn't be too difficult. Maybe more than plug in and play, you may need to install drivers via an online download or CDs. Depends on what you get, but it's not going to be difficult. You should be able to rebind keys through the option menu, and I haven't heard of anyone having problems with ED not recognizing joysticks. You may need to manually switch your control scheme (which is super easy).
Seems like the 3 most recommended joysticks under $100 on this sub are the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro for ~$30, the Thrustmaster T-16000M for ~$45 (many are saying they got it cheaper on amazon, that's just the price I'm seeing), and what you're most likely going to want, the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X for ~$57 (again, people are saying they have gotten this cheaper).
Minecraft? :P ~Anyway how even this stick is too expensive for you atm? I have it and it works fine. http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
You may not like my response but if you never tried SB before I would strongly suggest to get a cheap (but still good) stick before you spend loads of money for a full HOTAS system.
The Logitech 3d pro is pretty good, I used it for SB and it worked fine, upgraded to a Saitek x52 pro but only because I play DCS A-10C as well and there it is nice to have lots of buttons
The Thrustmaster t16000 is pretty good as well, as far as i've heard T16000
Or the Hotas if you want a seperate throttle HOTAS
If you are sure that you will stick to flightsims than you can think about getting some of the more expensive stuff. I have the Saitek X52 pro and I really really like it. Saitek X52 pro.
I don't have them but if you want rudder peddals, then Saitek is the way to go. Saitek peddals.
If you want peddals, it is good that you can block the twist on the X52 pro and solely use the rudder peddals.
I don't know how good the Saitek X55 is, I've heard mixed reviews about it Saitek X55.
And finally, if you really want to get the good stuff, here it is. I which I could afford it, but I need a new pc first. Note: There are no rudder peddals in the bundle and the stick has no twist, so you need them seperatly Thrustmaster HOTAS.
I hope I could help you a little bit :)
Honestly? Take a break, maybe play some other games. IL-2 1946 and IL-2 Cliffs of Dover are cheap and good. DCS modules aren't cheap, but the quality is amazing.
Take some of that cash that you'd be pumping into the game, get a good entry-level flightstick and make your own headtracker. Spend time flying in IL-2 and DCS, then if you still feel like you want to play WT, hop back in and try sim battles.
The sim experience is radically different. It would not be an understatement to say that it almost plays like a different game entirely.
Logitech has some good ones. I have a friend that used one of these for awhile.
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
As with all thing though, there is no real substitute for something closer to top of the line.
Definitely a good entry stick though IMO.
Here is one I used for awhile before picking up the x52 pro, again it is a solid joystick, just not amazing.
Edit: Here are a couple more that seem to be pretty good.
I used to have a Logitech extreme 3d pro and my friend just bought a Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas X. I liked my logitech while I had it (nothing wrong with it, just wanted an upgrade) and my friend really likes his thrustmaster. The 3d pro is just a stick with a small throttle lever and the thrustmaster has a stick and a throttle you rest your hand on. They both have the same amount of buttons and are both in your price range (thrustmaster should be about $50, 3d pro should be about $30). Both seem to be out of stock from Amazon and are thus only available from overpriced 3rd party sellers. I would look somewhere else besides Amazon until they are in stock with a good seller.
So how about something like this? I just so happen to have $30 left on an amazon gift card.
If you live in the US, about $40.
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
Yes, I believe you can use VATSIM with the steam edition.
Which joystick depends a lot on how much you want to pay. I'll paste links in ascending order of price for sticks which are reasonably recommendable.
I currently have a Saitek X-52 Pro which is absolutely fantastic (especially for the price).
=====
Joystick only
http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
http://www.amazon.com/Thrustmaster-T-Flight-Hotas-Flight-Playstation-3/dp/B001CXYMFS/
=====
HOTAS
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Products-200-571-Fighterstick-USB/dp/B00006B84X
with
=====
(I have this one)
http://www.amazon.com/Saitek-X52-Flight-System-Controller/dp/B000LQ4HTS
http://www.amazon.com/Saitek-Flight-H-O-T-Throttle-System/dp/B00HHAIY72/
and the most expensive (but seems to be well recommended):
http://www.amazon.com/Thrustmaster-Hotas-Warthog-Joystick-2960720/dp/B00371R8P4
I have the exact same logitech joystick. http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Extreme-Joystick-Silver-Black/dp/B00009OY9U
This thing is cheap as hell and is better than using a kb/m or a gamepad. I think a lot of people started with something like this, and it basically has enough bindings for the flaming cliffs 3 aircraft (non-clickable cockpits).
DCS World comes with the SU-25 for free, so I'd start with that. If you're still interested, then you can look towards other FC3 aircraft or maybe even a clickable cockpit one depending on what interests you.
Headtracking of some sort is also a gamechanger. I've only used VR, so I can't recommend what TrackIR or trackIR alternatives to use. Acceptable VR can be as 'cheap' as $150.
I use the Logitech Extreme 3D Pro. Cheap, works well. Not a super high level stick but I like it.
I use a Logitec 3d Pro, it has buttons for everything I need in Elite or any other game and then some.
Reasonably priced stick, well built. Using it for almost two years now, no issues. 10/10 would buy again.
Edit: I use a keyboard for thrust and direction thrust (up/down) and for all my menu navigating needs.
Ahhhh I used to have that stick. It was good when it came out. But that was 2000. I would highly recommend the Extreme 3D Pro. For $30, it has most anything you would need. 2 trigger buttons, 12 buttons (4 of them being thumb reachable), and the hat switch is 8-way (which gives you more than just up/down/left/right.
EDIT: The feeling of flying a 109 in Microsoft Flight Simulator WWII Europe Series is coming back to me.
No, I'm saying you should play E:D with whatever fits your budget. I had the HOTAS from playing Warthunder and flight sims. I bought the mic for my wife to use for her singing. I bought the head tracking because I have yet to buy my own VR headset. And the foot pedals just because. So when E:D came out, I was already set.
E:D can be played quite cheaply with just this joystick and this cheap but nice clip on mic. Set up the joystick and keyboard for necessary ship functions and use the mouse for head movement if you desire that. You can get your foot in the door for less than $50 + the cost of the game and still enjoy it to it's fullest.
I was in the same boat as you. I personally feel like the 360 controller is not well suited for making small corrections when trying to aim, so I got a Logitech 3D Pro and I definitely saw an immediate improvement in my aim.
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