Couple of words on the controller choice | Controls Elite: Dangerous Guide

Last update: 11 May 2016

Controlling the ships in the Elite has to be explained beyond the basic keyboard controls. Many players can find this complex system as too big obstacle to overcome. Even the ones that are used to flying simulators may find this system surprising.

The main difference between the Elite: Dangerous and the popular genre classics is the number of axes on which the ship can move. Instead of usual three, the Elite has six of them. You have to acquire the ability of flying on them in order to fly effectively and without any accidents. This six axis implementation comes from using the Newton's system (more on that in the Introduction to six axis flying system chapter) and it requires both hands to use it.

Players which are used to always playing on the keyboard and mouse will have the least problem with it. Same goes for those using the HOTAS (Hands on Throttle and Stick) controllers.

Finally, we have reached the point in which we will be telling which controller is the best for Elite. Keyboard and mouse will, of course, do absolutely fine but they're rather tough, especially in the context of controlling the machine put in the zero gravity.

What are the alternatives then?