Thrustmaster's T.Flight Hotas 4 has an ergonomic design, allowing it to adapt to all types of flight (air combat, space adventure, civil flight, etc.). The large hand rest helps players keep their hand in a very stable and relaxed position, to respond to the subtlest motions...

Authentic flying experience on a budget

For those looking for an authentic flying experience, the T.Flight Hotas 4 from Thrustmaster delivers a good all round experience for those on a limited budget. It's designed to work with PC / PS4 / PS5.

You can customise the gaming experience by detaching the throttle from the joystick (using the supplied Allen key) so that you can position the throttle to either your left or right-hand side (to recreate authentic piloting conditions); or have it attached to the joystick (for greater stability and to take up less space). Obviously, to get the best from this, you'll want to also pick up a rig to secure your controls in place but, even without one, its a pretty sturdy setup.

We currently have this set up to play War Thunder as well as VR titles Star Wars: Squadrons and Ultrawings. And it really helps to add another level to the immersive experience (especially with VR titles). It takes a little getting used to, and you'll need to train your muscle memory. You'll also want to go into each game's settings and tweak the sensitivity to your individual playing style. And once you're up and running, you'll wonder why on earth anyone would ever want to play flight games with a standard controller.

The joystick features a rudder function, which in a plane corresponds to the pedals used by the pilot, allowing the plane to pivot around its vertical axis (therefore making the plane turn left or right). This rudder function is accessible on the joystick by rotating the handle (with integrated locking system) or by progressive tilting lever. And once you've mastered it you'll also want to add the T.Flight Rudder Pedals, which simply plug into the back of the joystick. However, be warned, this takes a lot more time to master. But, once you've got to grips with it you'll be flying like a pro.

Recreate authentic piloting conditions

Be warned, however, you'll need to check whether the game you're playing has Hotas support, and in particular this model. But every game we've seen that does offer Hotas support is compatible with this joystick.

For the price, this really is a no brainer. There's something incredibly satisfying about using the controls in the same way a pilot would. But be warned. This is a slippery slope. Once you start down this path you'll be itching to seek out more authentic equipment to make you're flying experience as real as possible. I remember many moons ago, becoming addicted to Microsoft Flight Simulator on the PC. I ended buying a Yoke and instrumentation to get a more authentic experience. And those items were not cheap.

For those with limited funds, who want to experience flying in a more immersive environment, this is a great way to start out.

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Darren Rea