Just as how we looked at Mad Catz’s upcoming line of video game accessories for the Street Fighter IV franchise, the company has also kept
itself busy by focusing on genres other than beat ‘em ups – and what better way to kick off the new year than with a couple of new models for the Xbox 360 and PS3? These two joysticks are known as the Saitek Aviator Flight Stick, and they will definitely help all you flight simulator buffs enjoy a more realistic flying experience while sitting in the comfort of your living room. More details on both joysticks right after the jump.

The Mad Catz Saitek Aviator Flight Stick is touted to be a highly advanced combat joystick that was specially designed to enhance just about any flight simulation experience, and the oversized flat base certainly goes a long way for gamers when it comes to introducing increased stability. In addition, it features a trio of dedicated Fire Buttons so that you won’t go wrong when faced with enemies. Another feature on the Aviator Flight Stick is its heavy-duty Combat Trigger as well as POV (point-of-view) Analog Stick to help you be more nimble in the air. Not only that, you have an innovative Throttle Lever that was specially positioned to cater for ambidextrous gamers, so all you southpaws (including me) need not feel left out again. As for its two position Mode Switch, that enables gamers to perform on the fly changes to button configuration so that the ideal controls can be achieved as and when you need them. These Flight Sticks are certified by Mad Catz to function perfectly with game titles on both platforms, including the Blazing Angels series, and Ubisoft’s new combat flight simulator, Tom Clancy’s: HAWX. If you happen to own either console as well as a PC, rest assured the Saitek Aviator Flight Stick also works perfectly fine with it, just make sure that your desktop computer is up to par when it comes to system specifications since flight simulators can be pretty pretty demanding on the hardware.

Both models are tipped to retail for $49.99, and they will ship this month. There are some subtle differences between the two, with the Xbox 360 version featuring an integrated Xbox Live Headset Connector and an Xbox Guide Button, while the PS3 version is different as it has an integrated Home Button for users to access the PS3 Cross Media Bar in a snap.

Press Release