There’s certainly an intersection between video games and reality — real life — where you have the opportunity to simulate something that could be or possibly even is real. Virtual reality and sim-style games are at the forefront of that. I’m talking more Flight Simulator versus Truck Simulator, but you get the idea.
With VR and driving games, the controls are simulated but less realistic. Sure, you have a steering wheel, but you can also include a variety of unique buttons and controls that wouldn’t be available in the average vehicle. VR controllers have unique designs, but they’re still traditional controllers in that sense. Joysticks and flight simulator controls are similar, but what if you want something more realistic?
Short of hiring a professional engineer to craft you a custom setup, there is a place you can go: Honeycomb Aeronautical. If you need an example, look no further than the Alpha Flight Controls Lite.
Why Honeycomb? Why Alpha Flight Controls Lite?
At $200 for a realistic flight controller, we’re already talking piqued interest here. Alpha Flight Controls Lite features authentic controls, with 180-degree yoke rotation, inspired by real flight. Intuitive navigation is also possible thanks to a POV switch, two-way rocker switch, programmable buttons, and more.
Best of all, this is a high-quality flight controller made with precision materials that delivers a smooth experience all around. It will be like taking control of a flight stick in a real cockpit. It integrates seamlessly with simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, MSFS24 and more. There are ready-to-use device profiles for most popular games, too.
Key Features include:
- Authentic switches and two programmable buttons.
- 180-degree yoke rotation with realistic elevator and aileron controls.
- Streamlined front grill with fewer distractions, designed for entry-level users and modular set-ups.
- High-quality controls but with less complexity, with a realism that rivals high-end products.
There is a full-size version with more complexity simply called Alpha Flight Controls ($300). Want to add more? Check out the Bravo Throttle Quadrant or the Charlie Rudder Pedals. They’re all realistic, modeled after what’s available in real planes.
Because this borders on being one big advertisement at this point, I’ll simply explain that the recent launch of the Alpha Flight Controls Lite has captured my attention and I felt it was worth covering. Seeing as physical simulators and their ilk have seen a resurgence in recent years, as they should, this would be an excellent addition to anyone’s simulated cockpit at home.
