The Logitech Force 3D Pro joystick can bring added realism to your favorite games, but you may be out of luck if you're left-handed. The joystick's design favors right-handed players, and it is awkward and uncomfortable for left-handed players to use.

Another possible downside is that the Force 3D Pro requires a wired USB connection. This means less freedom of movement than with a wireless joystick, although this won't matter to everyone. On the other hand, the force feedback feature allows you to feel every bump, explosion, rumble, burst of gunfire and other vibration-based activity. The Force 3D Pro works with most games, but you will only get the benefit of force feedback in games that support it.

Installing the drivers and Logitech Profiler gaming software is a quick and painless process. The Profiler is simple to use, and it lets you create custom profiles. Once installed, it will automatically search your hard drive for existing games, and it will give you the option to customize each game's profile. The Profiler software ships with hundreds of predefined game profiles that you can use as is, or you can consider them starting points for creating your own custom configurations. Additional features are available for download from the Logitech website.

The joystick's layout includes an eight-way hat switch, 12 programmable buttons, a twist handle and a built-in throttle. The joystick and buttons are responsive, and all controls are easily accessible. The Force 3D Pro features sturdy construction and is stable enough not to move around easily on your desktop when you're in the middle of a heavy-duty firefight. The package includes a user guide, a power supply and a CD with drivers and other software.

The Logitech Force 3D Pro joystick will deliver many hours of enjoyable gaming, as long as you're not left-handed and you don't have your heart set on a wireless device.


Pros:  Reasonable price, comfortable design and sturdy construction, programmable buttons, works well even with many games that don't support force feedback
Cons:  Awkward design for left-handed players, requires a wired connection and its own power supply

Warranty
1 year, limited