Flight Stick worth it?

[DoraNine]

Hey Tudorp15,
I sit in a Lazy Boy recliner (I like to be comfortable while I'm getting shot down) and use a Saitek AV8R with no problems. I just use the same hand to throttle, that I use to hold it. The spring is so stiff in this joystick, that even if you set it on a flat surface -- you still have to hold it in place a little to keep the base from moving.

The only advantage (and it is a big one) I get from it is the throttle action. The rudder controls are horrible (all on, or all off) -- so if you need just a little rudder action to set up a shot -- forget it. The hat switch gives a good all-around view, but I only use it on Sim (which I hardly get a chance to play since most are playing "Science Fiction Mode" -- I mean "Arcade Mode". Another thing that drives me nuts is the "switch target" button -- which is on the base -- not the stick -- so you have to take your eyes off of the screen for a few seconds to hit that button.

My analysis: If they had the joysticks configured more intuitively I could recommend them -- but they really aren't much better than the controllers (atleast the Saitek isn't). If your looking for a little edge to improvement your ability to kill people -- this isn't it.

I do agree with some of the others about the increase in "fun factor" though.