◊ Who Else Wants The Best Flight Simulator Controls?

Flight simulator controls are an essential element in individual pilot as well as flight crew training. They save time, money and lives. Whether you’re an aspiring pilot or just a gamer the main goal in taking your time to find the perfect controller(s) is to ensure that they meet you’re needs.

Generally speaking, the better the flight controls the better your game will be. Because you need to keep your aircraft in equilibrium and stable. That is, you need flight controls. However, there’s no easy answer to the question,“What is the best flight simulator controls for my type of game?”

Well, there are many types of game controllers to choose from depending on your game:

• flight yokes
• rudder pedals
• simple joysticks
• joysticks with throttle levers
• game pads
• computer mouse and keyboard

The "Link Trainer" flight simulator controls circa 1930

Most controllers are passive devices because they do not communicate any feedback information (data) to the user. However, they’ll get you off to a great start. But ultimately, you’ll have to decide for yourself which are the best controllers for your specific needs and game play styles.

But there is a class of flight simulator controls systems I’d like to alert you about … for the ultimate in flight enjoyment.

1. 
   

   Saitek PRO Flight X-65F Combat Control System for PC. The joystick has no moving parts. Instead, it responds to pressure that you exert on the handle called force sensing (This is in contrast to force feedback which, we’ll discuss below). All input is detected from how hard you push on the stick, like those found in real modern fighter jets. Included is a force-sensing twist rudder control. Features on-the-fly adjustment of the force settings – including separate adjustments for each axis of the stick for the ultimate in response design. The shaft is made from high grade steel which, provides incredible reliability and longevity.

2. 
   

   Logitech G940 Flight System. No playing around. This force feedback joystick takes your flying to a new level. The controls are carefully crafted to look, feel and work just like the real thing. Force feedback is a term often used to describe tactile and/or kinesthetic feedback. It uses haptic (touch) technology that would allow users to feel virtual objects via force exerting action, vibration or motion. Force feedback lets you feel your aircraft react to wind shear, buffeting, turbulence and g-forces. In addition, a dual throttle, rudder pedals and interactive, programmable throttle-base buttons give you the true-to-life control you want.

Compatibility: PC, Playstation 2, Playstation 3, Wii, XBox, Xbox 360.

If you’re not sure what type of flight simulator controls for PC are best for your specific needs; consider visiting a local computer store to try the different options. There you’ll have the chance to literally “feel” which controller(s) is right for you. Think about button layout and quantity, grip fit, the type of controls the planes you like to fly have (yokes versus sticks) and so forth. If you have friends with several different controllers, try them in-game to get an even better idea. Enjoy your flight!