Picking the best flight simulators controllers
The modern market of gaming devices for virtual piloting is quite vast. The prices vary depending on the manufacturer and the materials of which the controller has been assembled. How does one not get lost in this ocean of gadgets and find a joystick that would fit their hand just right?
Table of Contents:
Flight Arsenal: What Types of Flight Simulators Controllers Are There?
In general the genre of flight simulators itself implies that you have, as the reviews state, “a joystick”. However, a regular user would come across a whole range of difficulties when searching for the most practical device. Apart from the regular flight yoke handle you’ll find different panels, handles and pedals. We’ll find out a bit later whether an amateur gamer needs all these features.
Regardless of whether you’re battling in the skies over Britain or are conquering a distant constellation, the set required for comfortable gaming will be pretty much the same. The products available are attractive as they are sold with a bunch of accessories, but an amateur wouldn’t know the difference between a flight stick and a flight throttle. Here’s a brief training, especially for newbies.
1. A Flight Stick
This is the very popular joystick as you know it. It will allow controlling your military (or not so military) craft in the air in any plane within the following axes**:
- X1: up and down tilts, the axis is responsible for the tilting the craft in space.
- X2: left and right tilts, the axis allows controlling the aircraft’s pitch.
** This is the minimum required functionality. For more details, refer to the corresponding paragraph of the review.
A modern flight stick is not a mere two-plane stick located on a hinge, but a device that at least allows comfortable shooting and flying in all types of arcades, and provides much less pleasant experience when playing more serious simulators. Here are the details that a flight stick usually has:
- A trigger which enables you to pour liquid lead (or cosmic plasma, depending on your preferred genre) on your enemies’ heads from above.
- An automatic fire switch allows you not to distract yourself by constantly hitting the trigger and lets you turn on the non-stop fire mode by default.
- Additional buttons are located on the panel near the stick’s bottom. Their amount depends on the manufacturer. They are a sort of customizable aids for newbies’ space flights.
- A traction lever is responsible for controlling the engine. Once again, this is drawback is due to the large amateur audience of the product, as separate device supplely controlling traction are available. This hybrid will do for those who have just decided to try a new genre.
- A hat switch or a mini joystick is familiar to all the gamepad owners. It lets you spin your “head” 360º in the pitch and perform lots of other actions, such as opening and navigating through the menu when you’re too lazy to get your mouse.
- Additional sliders, wheels and buttons are a trade mark of such companies as Razer, which focus the great majority of their products on the market of casual and eSports gaming. They would hardly be suitable for pro flight simulator gamers as the tiny buttons are located on a single stick and are easy to be mixed up.
- Feedback allows for more responsive control thanks to the Forced Feedback technology. A forced feedback joystick is much more expensive, but it will provide for a deeper flight experience on the other hand.
- Vibration will let you partly feel the effect of cockpit breaking down or of a wing being broken away. This option is available for more costly models.
Best Flight sticks allow playing such flight simulators as «War Thunder» in the arcade mode. However, you won’t do without additional gadgets should you feel like playing some more serious flight simulators.
2. A Flight Throttle
This is a controller for flexible traction control on the Y2 axis (it is responsible for moving back and forth). This is an add-on for advanced gamers who require more control over engine. The throttle contains:
- An N-way switch. The number of positions depends on the model, 4 is the optimal one.
- The set of additional buttons also depends on the model of a throttle. Even the most expensive throttle’s tilt sensor allows reducing the deviation of the axis up to 1º which is much more convenient than an ever-sliding out of your fingers scrolling wheel.
3. Rudder Pedals
This element seems to be more appropriate for auto simulators, yet the pedals are in charge of controlling the X2 axis (enabling the left-right movement). They function as a rudder and help you follow your course while expertly avoiding the enemies’ fire. Should you happen to buy a premium set, rudder pedals will be the only element allowing you to control the course as the flight sticks rarely have such an option.
The difference between flight simulator and race simulator rudder pedals is that the former more resemble the real aircraft’s elements. Once you push a pedal too hard, the other one will move back. You won’t be able to perform a proper turn without a rudder, neither you will be able to escape your enemies’ attack, so if you’ve decided to invest in an expensive device, rudder pedals will be irreplaceable.
4. A Flight Yoke
This is an independent device for civil flight simulator fans. By default it allows controlling the flight along the 4 main axes. The main disadvantage is that even though it’s easy to control a Boeing or something like that but a multi-purpose jet will require a more sensitive controller.
A nimble aircraft will become uncontrollable when turning due to stiff movement more suitable for languid Airbus flight. As an option, you can switch to a more massive military craft, such as IL-4 or B-17 the control of which doesn’t require any extravagant turns.
5. Info Panels
They are required by the so-called “worldly-wise” gamers. Even if you plan to learn controlling IL-2 or Lock On professionally, you will hardly be able to do without the desktop info panels. As a rule, such devices, which I consider to be extremely decorative and shamelessly uninformative, can serve as:
- The altimeter
- The airspeed Indicator
- The vertical speed indicator
- A compass
They can also show a ratio of the above mentioned figures. Sometimes it’s possible to install a large panel displaying up to 24 statuses simultaneously
As you can guess, you can have a separate panel for all the indicators you have. The only thing that is required is enough space and money. The panels are more likely to be an option for the fans of civil flights as you will hardly have any time on your hands during a battle for checking all the indicators. However, it may become necessary when playing certain "masochistic" combat simulators.
6. Flight Switch Panel
Now this is something that permits the users not only to admire the figures on the screen but also lets them stir various levers, just like a real pilot. The panel lets you control the chassis, ignition, traction (which becomes useless if you have the throttle), ten signal lights and there are even a couple more useful features.
Once again, this gadget can be diagnosed with the Boeing syndrome. You might want to turn on all 10 signal lights with different buttons when simulating civil flights, but the panel will become practically useless when playing a military aircraft.
7. Head Movement Tracker
This is a device for those who believe that turning your head inside the cockpit with a hat switch is not realistic enough. An entire virtual reality system, such as Oculus Rift, or a more reasonably priced options could be used for this purpose.
8.Gaming Chair
Any simulator, regardless of its type (e.g.online, single player, passenger or a military jet) is very addictive. Remember that gaming must bring peace and pleasure rather than fatigue and nervousness. A proper gaming chair is a key to this. Here is what you should pay attention to:
- Comfort. It should be very comfortable, the materials shouldn't be too tight and ergonomics are supposed to fit you personally.
- Customizing. The more elements can be customized, the better.
- Cool design. Pilots are super cool and brutal, they won't be satisfied by chairs for puppies and kittens. Classic aggressive red or black ones are an excellent choice!
9.USB Hub
To connect all these devices, you'll need a good USB hub. How do you pick a suitable one? Pay attention to the number of ports: the more, the better. USB 3.0 is preferred as it is today's standard. Additional perks, such as port switches or charging ports, are more than welcome.
From my own experience, I wouldn't recommend saving money on this element of your simulator. More nervous system cells will be destroyed than a population of an entire city when a port stops working during a battle, and your pedal or joystick stops working. Take care of your health!
Best-Selling Flight Simulators Controllers Comparative Table
PXN F16 Wired Flight Stick Joystick with Vibration Function, 12 Programmable Buttons, 4 Axis Controlling, Flight...
- 【With throttle valve and direction】 PXN-F16 flight simulation game joystick controller, with manual throttle valve switch, rudder control direction, you can truly feel the flight experience brought by flying driving, and the fun of the game, let you Find the wonderful world of the game in the flying world and feel the charm of a different sky. You deserve to have the FXN-F16 direction game joystick
- 【With Vibration Function】Vibration feedback and rapid-fire trigger for realistic game experience, without missing a beat,This function will never let you down with realistic fly experience.(Note:Vibration Switch is at the bottom of the joystick,please switch to“ON”.If the vibration strength is less than 20%,you will almost not feel the vibration.Please set the vibration strength in the driver to 50% or higher)
- 【Compatible games】Compatible with almost flight games:World of Tanks,World of Warplanes,War Thunder,Assault Horizon,Microsoft Flight Simulator,X Plane 10,Microsoft Flight Simulator,X Plane 2020,, DCSword, X-Plane 11, P3D, FSX, Ace Combat, Eagle Strike Sky-2,etc. (Note:Minecraft,Asphalt 8 not supported)
- 【Immersive Fly Experience】Now you can make the right moves with rapid fire trigger,4 axis controlling,8-Way hat switch,12 programmable buttons.Advanced software,Support various custom adjustment and keyboard mapping.It is for PC/Computer/Laptop and compatible with Windows XP/VISTA/7/8/10 (Windows 10 Home,Mac/Apple computers/Apple equipment not supported)
- 【Pretty Good Hands Feeling】Precision linear potentiometer with handware correction, assures a accurate flight control,With a solid, smooth feeling,Precise throttle control,Ergonomic design,Single hand control full function.Comfortable grip, stable and weighted base, provides excellent flight experience(Note:Force Feedback not supported)
Logitech G Saitek X52 Flight Control System, Controller and Joystick Simulator, LCD Display, Double Suspension,...
- Realistic Flying at Hand: Magnetic, non-contact X and Y axis sensors provide enhanced longevity and pinpoint accuracy
- Multifunction LCD Display: Allows you to check all the programmed commands on your HOTAS before activating them. Also coordinate your flight plan with clock and stopwatch function
- Rudder Control: The 3D twist gives you rudder control without the need for rudder pedals. For those who already have rudder pedals, you can lock off the axis in order to prevent accidental activation
- Advanced Grip Adjustment System: With the 5-position grip system, maintain excellent ergonomic comfort with no need to stretch to reach buttons
- 282 Programmable Commands over 3 Modes: Have all of the commands in Elite Dangerous or Star Citizen under your fingertips with no need to switch back to your keyboard
Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Yoke System, Professional Simulation Yoke and Throttle Quadrant, 3 Modes, 75...
- Pro-Grade Yoke: Built with durable stainless steel shaft and precision bearings for smooth, predictable elevator and aileron control
- Sim Compatibilities: Whichever your preferred simulation programme is, this flight yoke system works with FSX - Flight Simulator X, X-Plane 10 and Prepar3D 2.2
- Configurable Controls: This flight yoke system comes with a pro-grade throttle quadrant that has detachable and programmable knobs for a fully customised flight simulation
- Fine-Tune Your Flight: The flight yoke and throttle system comes with 25 buttons, and three-position switch for cycling through your saved profiles with ease and speed
- Configurable Controls: This flight yoke system comes with a pro-grade throttle quadrant that has detachable and programmable knobs for a fully customised flight simulation
- Adjustable Mounts: Adaptable to your desktop set up, this flight sim yoke system comes with secure and adjustable mounting clamps, so you can fly worry-free that the set up will move
Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S Throttle and Joystick Flight Simulator Game Controller, 6 Dregrees of Freedom, 4 Spring...
- 6 Degrees of Freedom: 6DoF are the six degrees of freedom – pitch, roll, yaw, backwards, forwards, up, down, left and right – that all need to be accounted for with unique precision
- VR-Ready: With an immense number and sensitivity of controls, X56 is ideal for head-mounted displays (HMD) and VR gaming. Put on a headset and grab onto X56 for endless adventure
- Customisable RGB: X56 supplies the heroic environment you need for the best experience. Edit the full-spectrum RGB lighting to your liking with feature-rich software found at the link below
- Adjustable Accuracy: Combination of contact-free Hall effect sensors within the 16-bit aileron and elevator axis, and the adjustable spring tensioning system gives X56 an high level of sensitivity
- Independent Twin Throttles: The innovative twin throttles are ideal for dual-engine spacecraft and aircraft, and even more ideal for flight battle situations
Logitech G Saitek X52 Pro Flight Control System, Controller and Joystick Simulator, LCD Display, Illuminated...
- Realistic Flying: This flight stick and throttle pair features magnetic non-contact X and Y axis sensors and dual spring centring mechanism, with an integrated LCD display
- Enhanced Displays: You'll never struggle viewing your custom controls with the illuminated buttons and an integrated LCD display, with adjustable backlighting and information on your configurations
- Customisable Rudder Control: The gaming flight stick comes with 3D twist rudder controls - with a choice of disabling the twist capabilities and confining input to X and Y axes
- Complete Comfort: This flight joystick features a 5-position handle adjusent system, conforming and contoured to your preferred grip style and hand size
- Customisable Rudder Control: The gaming flight stick comes with 3D twist rudder controls - with a choice of disabling the twist capabilities and confining input to X and Y axes
- Powerful Programming: Users can download the customisable software and configure the controls to best suit their piloting style
PXN-2113 USB Flight Stick PC Joystick Controller Simulator Gamepad Wired Gaming Control for Flight Stick...
- 🏆 PXN 2113 According to the game scene, the full rated vibration engine can produce different vibration effects, compatible with all flying games: "World of Tanks", "World of Warplanes", "War Thunder", "Assault Horizon", Microsoft Simulator, X Plane 10, etc. (Note): Minecraft is not supported, pitch 8). (Note: The vibration switch is located at the bottom of the joystick, please switch to "ON". If the vibration intensity is less than 20%.
- 🏆PXN 2113 wired gamepad flying stick, advanced software, supports various custom adjustments and keyboard mapping. Suitable for PC/computer/laptop and compatible with Windows XP/VISTA/7/8/10 (Windows 10 Home Edition, Mac/Apple computer/Apple device is not supported).
- 🏆Directional coolie cover, realizing the top left, right four directions and 45 degree angle, convenient to change perspective in the game, the battle situation is in sight..Three axes (X / Y / RZ axes) + Accelerator valve + 12 programmable keys + eight-way cover, these functional configurations will become the needs of your game.
- 🏆Manipulate the swing and chase army planes, block, aim and pull the trigger successfully. Shooting is so simple.The controller software supports keyboard and mouse settings, dead zone adjustment, key mapping, axis mapping and many other custom settings to create your personal customization according to the needs of the game.
- 🏆Installation:Insert driver disk into your CD-ROM, double click “setup” and install the driver according to the prompt.If you don t have a CD-ROM on your PC, please go to www.e-pxn.com to download and install the driver at: Home Support Driver Download.Download “PXN Thunder PRO PXN-2113” driver program and unzip and install it following the instruction.
PXN 2119II Wired Flight Stick Joystick Controller with Analog Vibration, 7 Axis Dual 8-Way Key Widget, 16 Key...
- The PXN-2119II flight stick joystick is built rocker throttle separately, analog vibration, 16-key programming
- Featured a 7-axis, two 8-way key widget caps and 16 separate movement control keys
- The built-in motor to make the game realistic reproduction rocker feel, with motor switch control
- Players can drive freely by edit the settings for the keyboard mapping function, extended with 16*3 function keys
- Compatible with PC mainstream system, supporting Windows xp/7/8/10, Kindly Note: Before gaming, first you should connect the flight control to PC, and next go to your flight game setting select USB joystick input and mapping the key_input
Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One Flight Stick for Xbox One & Windows - Works on Xbox Series X|S
- The first official joystick for Xbox One and Windows, with the official buttons for the Xbox One console
- Ergonomic design perfectly adapted for all types of flight simulation (space adventure, modern combat, warplanes, civil flight)
- Detachable, full-size throttle for easy maneuverability, even in virtual reality
- Adjustable handle resistance with wide hand-rest
- Comprehensive flight gear: 5 axes + 14 action buttons + 1 rapid-fire trigger + 1 multidirectional hat switch (navigation/panoramic view)
- Works on Xbox Series X|S
Thrustmaster TFRP - T. Flight Rudder Pedals (T.A.R.G.E.T Software, PC)
- The first rudder to feature the S.M.A.R.T slide rails system for smooth steering
- Ergonomic design allowing you to put your entire foot on the pedal, thanks to the heel-rests
- Heel-rests are removable, for alternative ergonomic configurations - put your entire foot on the pedal, or rest the ball of your foot at mid-pedal
- Differential braking - 2 large pedals (10 inches/25 centimeters)
- USB and/or proprietary RJ12 connectivity
- On PC (Windows 10/8/7/Vista) works with all joysticks on the market thanks to Thrustmaster's drivers
- On PC - compatible with all games supporting multi-USB and rudders
- On PC and on PS4 - works with and connects directly to the Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas 4 joystick
PXN-F16 PC Joystick Flight Simulator Controls Flight Stick Joystick for PC Windows XP/7/8/10, 8-way Hat Switch,...
- 【COMPATIBLE SYSTEMS】: Windows XP/VISTA/7/8/10 (MAC devices are not supported). Plug and play for most PC, some might require driver. PLEASE contact us if you find not easy to use this pc flight stick
- 【ANTI-SLIP BOTTOM】: 5 non-slip pads on the bottom side, making sure the flight joy stick won't move around when you are enjoying the flight world
- 【ADVANCED MECHANISM】: 8-way hat switch, 12 programmable keys, 4 axis, rapid-fire trigger, high precision control, ergonomic design, giving you the best experience a flight simulator control could ever offer
- 【VIBRATION FUNCTION】: You could easily set up vibration feedback(Find the on-off switch on the bottom), and greatly immerse yourself into the exciting sky battling world
- 【SUPPORTED GAMES】: World of Tanks, World of Warplanes, War Thunder, Assault Horizon, Microsoft Flight Simulator, X Plane 10, and more...
Speedlink Phantom Hawk Gaming Flight Stick for PC SL-6638-BK, Throttle Controller, 3 Control Dimensions, 8-Way...
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN - Its user-friendly design features a perfectly positioned flight stick for right-handed use.
- COOLIE HAT - It features an eight-way Coolie Hat for an all-round visibility.
- DIGITAL FIRE BUTTONS - Has 12 freely assignable fire buttons and throttle controller that gives you advanced acceleration against your enemies.
- VIBRATION EFFECTS - Experience realistic driving experience with its force vibration feedback.
- SECURE AND COMFORTABLE GRIP - Has 4 suction cups, providing strong grip on the surface for maximum stability.
- Force vibration for the ultimate gaming experience
- Four-way digital D-pad controller
- Cable length: 78.74 inch/2 m
- Dimensions: 185 × 185 × 240 mm (W × D × H) Package contains: Flight stick, driver CD, quick install guide
Logitech G Saitek Farm Sim Heavy Equipment Side Panel, 25+ Assignable Buttons, Front Loader Stick with Twist...
- Welcome to Command Central: Even complex logging machines are rendered simple to operate thanks to the side panel loader control stick with its 6 axes
- Mod-Friendly with Programmable Buttons: Set-and-forget cruise control speed dial and 37 programmable buttons give you the flexibility to control your entire farm from just the one controller
- Stable Base: The durable clamp, featuring Saitek’s proven screw-thread adjustment, ensures your controller stays locked in place on your desk
- Broad Compatibility: Farming Simulator 19, Elite Dangerous, Star Citizen, Euro Truck Simulator – these are just a few of the other titles in which you can easily use the Side Panel for control
- Grow your Farm: You’re Ready to Roll. GIANTS Software is constantly adding vehicles and features to enhance your farm sim experience. Add also our wheels and pedals for more control
PXN-2113 Game Flight Joystick Flight Simulation Game Rocker Controller Flight Stick Bar Vibration Flight Joystick
- 4 axis controlling, 8-Way HAT switch and 12 Programmable Buttons
- Vibration feedback for a realistic game experience
- Precision Linear Potentiometer with hardware correction, assures a accurate flight control
- Advanced software can support various custom adjustment and keyboard mapping
- 4 cupules, easy to fix and reliable to play
Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas 4 Joystick with Detachable Throttle, for PS4 and PC
- Official joystick for PlayStation 4 with built-in buttons for the PlayStation 4 system (PS/Share/Options)
- Designed to adapt to all types of flight, and perfect for use in virtual reality: the throttle is detachable, even in virtual reality
- Plug-and-play joystick, for a simplified and intuitive gaming experience
- Other key features: adjustable joystick handle resistance; large, comfortable hand rest; weighted base for optimal stability
- List of compatible PS4 games available at support.thrustmaster.com/
How to Choose the Best Flight Simulator Controller?
Razer, Steelseries – no matter how strange it seems, we won’t even consider these tycoons of eSports gadgets. The thing is that Razer cannot be competed with when it comes to manufacturing mice and keyboards, but their range of flight simulator equipment is too unimpressive. These companies’ devices are targeted mostly for wide audience, so there could be issues connected with limited functionality even when playing arcades.
- Saitek. This brand might as well be the most popular one among both professional and amateur gamers due to its wide product range. The company manufacturers both flight sticks and throttles as well as the entire sets of additional equipment.
Saitek X line has once become the benchmark on the market. Although this HOTAS device costs a lot even today, the price is fully justified. The feedback at least is exclusively positive. The materials are also fine, the handle rubber seems durable enough, and the lever course is tight which enables you to feel the mass of the craft you’re piloting. There are no gaps and squeaks.
10. Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals
Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals are a nice pedal add-on the joystick of the line.
Saitek Pro Flight Rudder Pedals: Check the current price
11. Logitech G Pro Flight Multi Panel
It is the most useful panel of all available.
All in all Saitek devices provide you with good value for money, but the value is also the issue here. You’ll hardly find a cut-rate device here, but investing into this brand will leave you confident in terms of quality. Moreover, the range of products is immense, so if money is not a problem, buying X-65F is your instant choice.
Logitech G Pro Flight Multi Panel: Check the current price
- Logitech. This is a mass market manufacturer; both its prices and quality vary.
12. Logitech Flight System G940 Force Feedback Joystick
Flight System G940 encompasses more options than other devices covered in this article. It includes all the necessary levers, rudder pedals and lots of other extremely useful elements. The price of G940 is very competitive, so if you want to have it all at once, choose Logitech.
Logitech Flight System G940: Check the current price
- Thrustmaster
Just like a college textbook, the device is useful yet very expensive. If you buy Thrustmaster you’ll get an ever-durable Bentley, but you’ll have to upgrade it with Kia spare parts.
13. Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog Joystick
Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog Joystick: Check the current pric
As for the reasonably-priced flight sticks, Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas Stick X is available and is not as cool as Warthog, yet it operates well enough for its price tag which leaves us satisfied.
- Genius
This paragraph is devoted to the fans of arcade flights. If your budget is tight enough when it comes to investing in a gadget, and you don’t strive to become an ace pilot, then a Genius joystick will be just what you need.
14. Genius METAL STRIKE FF Joystick
Genius METAL STRIKE FF Joystick comes with all the basic axes, a set of extra button and even has forced feedback. Of course, the quality is incomparable to that of flagman products, but it will do for playing War Thunder for several hundred hours, for example.
Genius METAL STRIKE FF Joystick Check the current price
What Should You Choose? Should you pick HOTAS manufactured by a single company or by multiple ones?
As usual, the answer depends on the genre you prefer.
If you aim to fly as much as possible and get some realistic experience in War Thunder or World of Warplanes, then there is hardly anything better than HOTAS. MMO flights don’t require monitoring all of the indicators in an aircraft, even when it’s a simulator.
The system will also suit IL-2 and X series. Things are not that simple for certain space simulators, as the idea there is that the more buttons there are, the better. Elite is a game like that. If you happen to choose a moderately-priced joystick, make sure the best flight stick has a yawing axis as it is crucial for semi-arcades.
Some serious simulators, such as Microsoft flight simulator require a full set of devices. You’ll need all those panels and buttons that were useless in dynamic battles. DCS World requires everything there is on the controller market (many gamers find that even that is not enough for comfortable gaming). Obviously, the price for a super set will be premium.
Typical arcades, such as the World of Warplanes do not require excessive perks. Moreover, you can play without spending a penny just with your mouse and keyboard. If you feel like using a yoke, though, buy a flight stick with minimum features.
How to Make Your Choice?
First of all, pay attention to:
- Assembly Quality. It is best to buy the device off-line, so that you can feel it.
- Comfort. Even if all reviews rate the gadget 10/10, but it still doesn’t fit your hand properly, look for alternative. Any review is biased and you’d much rather spend your money on something you like. Mind the golden rule that the handle should be heavy to make your experience of using a virtual yoke more realistic.
- Compatibility with other devicesThe wider is the range of compatible devices, the better. The best thing is the option of combining parts made by different companies.
- Necessity. Do you really need the rudder pedals? Perhaps, you could play with a gadget that is much less expensive?
Will You Get More Frags or Will You Have to Deal with Bugs?
A newbie will have a hard time not only when it comes to choosing the hardware. Often the software has a bunch of drawbacks. Despite being proven over years, the legendary MFSX and DSC for flight simulators have just as many disadvantages.
Moreover, if you expect the air battle to be as realistic as possible, you’ll likely be disappointed, as the IL-2’s graphics are far from Crysis ones (and this aircraft allows for bearable battle view, its graphics are considered to be one of the best). Fps freezes and high ping common for online games also prevent you from fully plunging into the atmosphere.
However, as confirmed by the numerous online communities in the USA and all over the world, the true gamers accept the challenge. Any newbie pilot will find the answers to any question on the corresponding message boards.