Years ago, joysticks were simply a stick and a button with little flexibility, even less than a mouse. Today, however, joysticks are far more advanced and versatile, offering multiple-function buttons and "force feedback" technology. They create a more realistic gaming environment and give you that much needed competitive edge. 

Why would I want one?
To get the most out of your gaming experience, a joystick is essential. If you've ever tried a first-person shooter just using your mouse, you know the wear and tear your shoulders, arms, neck, and other body parts (not to mention your social life) can experience. A joystick drastically reduces your body movements during game play. And a joystick is not limited to your desktop like a mouse is. You can always move it to a position that's more comfortable for you. 

Most joysticks include numerous multi-function buttons that you can customize to perform specific functions. The more buttons the more functions that you can assign to them. By customizing a joystick, you can program a function, such as jumping, which might require two keystrokes on your keyboard, into one joystick button. It will save you time in hunting for the keys and then executing the command. Most joystick buttons are strategically placed so they are readily accessible while you are grasping the throttle. As a result, you can reduce your response time and make that critical move to help you through that scenario you've been battling for weeks. 

How do I install and use it?
Before installing any hardware on your computer, carefully read and follow the included instructions. Unless you're installing a USB joystick, always be sure the computer is powered down and disconnected from its power source. 

Joysticks connect to your computer through three types of interfaces: Universal Serial Bus (USB), game port, or serial port. Installation greatly depends on the type of interface you use, but is not overly complicated. 

Power off the computer and disconnect the power cord from the wall socket. Connect the joystick to its appropriate port and have the software driver disk (included) ready. Reconnect the power cord and turn on your computer. Both Windows 95 and 98 will automatically recognize the new hardware and may prompt you to insert the driver disk into the appropriate drive. Insert the disk and follow the remaining on-screen instructions. You will have to restart the computer once the software drivers are installed. 

USB joysticks do not require you to power down the computer. You can install them with the computer power on. Connect the joystick's USB connector into an available USB port. Windows 98 will recognize the new hardware and launch the Hardware Wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation. You do not have to restart your computer before using your joystick. 

Once installation is complete, some joysticks require that you calibrate it and configure the controls to your specifications. Refer to the documentation that came with your joystick to complete this process. Some joysticks come pre-configured for many games, but may require configuration for others. Again, refer to your owner's documentation to guide you through this process 

How do I go about buying one?
Before buying a joystick, determine just how serious a computer gamer you really are and what types of games your prefer. The enthusiast should look for all the bells and whistles, such as multiple buttons, force-feedback technology, and the ability to customize it. Gaming enthusiasts play a wide range of games, including role-playing, strategy, sims, and action and adventure. The more flexible the joystick, the more the enthusiast will gain from it. A gaming enthusiast could be characterized as one who plays on daily basis. 

Occasional gamers are likely to be less experienced or competitive than the enthusiast is. Lots of buttons can be more confusing than beneficial and result in frustration. If you classify yourself as the occasional gamer, a few less buttons and bells and whistles will suit you just fine. 

Another critical factor in choosing a joystick is its interface. As mentioned, joysticks connect to your computer through a USB interface, game port, or serial port. Be sure you identify which one of these ports is available before you make your purchase. Of the three interfaces, none present any distinct advantages over the other. 

A game port is a 15-pin port attached to your sound card and is essentially a serial port designed specifically for a joystick. USB interfaces do allow the use of multiple joysticks simultaneously, but that depends on how many available ports your computer has. A serial port is a 9-pin connector that provides a direct link the motherboard.