Does Starfield support HOTAS & does it support joysticks?
Joystick or full HOTAS for Starfield? We examine the possibility
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Starfield has been of the most exciting game releases of the year, but does Starfield support Joystick or HOTAS? Well, there’s plenty to talk about if you’re looking to get your fix of space flight simulation in Bethesda’s new epic space exploration title. Ever since the official Starfield Xbox controller was revealed prior to release, many players may be wondering about additional controller support.
While no official Starfield joystick or HOTAS controllers have been announced, we take a look at the possibility for support. Space exploration and flight simulation enthusiasts will definitely be wanting to take a new ship for a spin with the best setup for the job.
Does Starfield support Joystick?
Following its release, it looks as if Starfield does not have official Joystick support. This definitely can feel like a let down for many hopeful pilots looking to try out the flying mechanics in the open-world RPG. It was perhaps expected that the game doesn’t yet fully embrace alternate controls such as a joystick, as flying isn’t the sole focus compared to dedicated space flight simulators such as Elite Dangerous.
On the bright side though, controller remapping programs may be able to offer a workaround so you can get your fix of flying on a joystick. Since release, we’ve spotted this handy YouTube tutorial which can help you out. We can’t say that this control scheme will be optimal for other aspects of the game such as FPS aiming, but it could be fun to switch between for when you take flight.
Does Starfield support HOTAS?
Likewise, HOTAS support seems like wishful thinking and is currently not implemented officially. The game definitely looks to be designed around regular controller support for a more arcade space flight feel as opposed to a realistic simulation. The official Starfield controller is a reminder of this, as the large majority of the player base will be enjoying the game without enthusiast peripherals like a HOTAS.
As we mentioned, space flight only makes up a small portion of the game, so the shooter and RPG mechanics will not be well suited for a controller scheme such as HOTAS. We’ll have to wait until official news or fan-made modifications to see if support is there in future.
Possible best Joystick setup for Starfield
If the game does indeed benefit from joystick or HOTAS support in future, either officially or via controller remapping or mod support, then it’s worth taking a look at a couple of different popular enthusiast choices.
Best Joystick for Starfield on PC
Logitech G Extreme 3D Pro USB Joystick
Controller Type
Joystick
Buttons
12 programmable buttons
Connectivity Technology
USB
Compatibility
Windows
This Logitech joystick offers one of the best entry-level controllers out there for this kind of control scheme. Although it is limited to PC, it features 12 programmable buttons and simple USB connectivity which makes it a great choice for flight simulation at a basic level.
Best HOTAS for Starfield on PC & Xbox
Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One
Controller Type
HOTAS Joystick
Buttons
14 action buttons
Connectivity Technology
USB
Compatibility
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows
For a more full flight simulation experience, you can opt for a HOTAS controller. This is compatible with both Windows and Xbox consoles, and gives you both a joystick and throttle to play with. Perfect for all kinds of flying – whether it be a steady cruise or intricate ship combat.
Joystick or HOTAS for Starfield FAQs
Will Starfield have flying mods?
It has been confirmed by no other than Bethesda director Todd Howard that Starfield has mod support planned, much like their previous games. The modding community is largely focused on PC players, though porting select mods to consoles is a possibility too.
This means we definitely expect some mods for flying to arrive some time in the future; we don’t yet know how this will pan out though.
What does HOTAS stand for?
As a HOTAS features both a flight stick and throttle – it understandably stands for ‘hands on throttle-and-stick’. These game controllers are designed for more realistic flight simulation and greater control of your flying maneuvers.
Final word
We’ve come to the end of our guide, but there is plenty more to come from Starfield. With the game now released, we’re excited to see how it all unfolds – especially controller support. While support for joysticks or HOTAS is not officially included, it would be a welcome surprise to see it arrive in future.
In case of no official support, we can always look forward to controller remapping or mod support to help us get our space flight fix. Be sure to keep up to date with even more Starfield news while you’re here!
