Basic Equipment Question

[Beerhunter]

Hello all,
I started the two-week trial a few days ago after seeing the AH advertised on TV. I already have a pretty good computer, but I didn't have a joystick. Instead of reading the forums first, I got impatient and bought a Logitech Force3D Pro.
I've since seen tons of Logitech bashing.
Here is my question: Is it possible to enjoy this game with just a joystick that controls rudder and throttle too?

So far I haven't lasted more than a few minutes before getting shot down. And the more I read the forums the more I see that people have much more expensive equipment than me. But I want to see if I really like the game before I invest more.

It seems like there are serious gamers in AH...much more serious than myself. I would just like to register a kill a least.

Sorry I'm rambling. I thought I should post something since I'm so frustrated.
Thanks

[Krusty]

I think you simply need more practice. This game actually has a learning curve that's longer than the free trial.

As for the joysticks, they're good to learn with, they're good to fly with, if they're new, and in general any joystick with a twisty rudder and a sliding throttle will serve you well.

The reason we bash Logitech sticks is that they lose their center (i.e. they don't point where you want them to), they can spike (i.e. you have steady motion but they don't, messing you up in either aim or manuver), and they have very cheap internal components that only last a short while before manifesting symptoms.

With that in mind if you bought it, use it until you can't bear to anymore. They usually have a period, when new, where they operate well. This should serve you well in your trial, and if you decide to stay it will serve you afterwards.

You have it, so use it. But if/when you get sick of it, don't hesitate to get something new.

Cheers!

[ramzey]

http://shop3.outpost.com/product/3766526?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
about 5$ more then logitech

for beginner its ok, for pro  too;)
dont buy wieless when your logitech gonna went out
you can find them in every Fry's, bestbuy, compusa


edit:

dont worry about extreme expencive equipment other have, its about SA and expirience
I swear, on my old logicrap joystick i had more kills then on x52

[Waffle]

Play on the one you have - in this game, fancy equiptment is not needed - just time to learn the game.  As mentioned above - the learning curve is a large one.  Get to know the help manual (downloadable) and study up on basic ACM (Air Combat Manuevering) It'll take several weeks before you can start downing other "pilots" consistantly - or at least have some sort of a chance. Remember - you're flying against other humans, so there will always be a challenge. If you like it, you can move up on controls, such as rudders, seperate throttle and even track IR - which allows you to turn your head to view like you were in the plane itself.   For now just stick with what you have and learn the game and some basi ACM before shelling out cash for other controls.

[Beerhunter]

Thanks for putting my mind at ease, folks. I know one thing for sure. There are some great people on here.

[WhiteHawk]

Ive been using the logitech extreme 3d pro for years now.  I really like the resistance that the stick has.  I tried to go with the fancy stuff, but just couldnt get used to it.  I guess I just got used to this stick from the get go.  Its about 50 bucks and has rudder (I use pedals tho) and throttle with 12 buttons.  Very basic but it works great for me.  (Keep your reciept tho if you buy one of these, they are notorious for having bad potentiometers).

[Ghosth]

Beerhunter

Hook up with a trainer (or 2 or 4) in the Training Arena.

Can make a HUGE difference in how long you survive.
Once you can stay alive, that speeds up learning how to get a few kills and get back home.

Also read everything you can find on fight combat tatics, start here.
http://www.netaces.org

[Beerhunter]

Thanks Ghost.
I have a few days with an empty house. I plan to log some practice time.