Logic3 Phantom2

Phantom 2 Dual Mode Joystick

Manufactured By: Logic3

Retail Price: $39.99

Review Date: 03-26-99

Logic 3 has an extensive line of controllers that can be found the world over. Recently the product line has been expanded into North American territories and now includes USB controllers. The Phantom 2 is the first USB capable joystick from Logic3. It also offers a gameport connection for those without USB ports or those wising to use the controller under DOS.

Features 84%-

• Digital USB or Standard Analog Game Port mode
• 4 (gameport)/8 (USB) Way Hat Switch
• Large Analog Throttle
• X and Y axis trim controls
• 4 Microswitched Fire Buttons
• 8 ft. cable

Appropriate For-

• Flight Sims (MS FlightSim 98/2000, MS Combat Sim, etc.)
• Space Sims (Mechwarrior III, Descent 3, Forsaken, etc.)
• Racing games (Midtown Madness, Motocross Madness, Need for Speed series, etc.)

**System Requirements

**Windows 98, USB port or gameport and DOS 6.2 or higher

Price-

The MSRP of nearly $40 is a bit high for a controller with its feature set. However, the joystick is well built and functions great.

Warranty-

1-year limited warranty.

Performance 91%-

The Phantom 2 was tested using both the gameport and USB connections. No difference between the two connection methods was detected in use but the USB connection is easier to setup. Testing was done with a handful of flightsims, racing games and space sims.

The lack of a rudder axis is the Phantom's only weakness. In all but the racing games this was a control concern. It is next to impossible to set down a plane with a crosswind unless you have rudder control, skill and luck. In space sims the rudders are typically used for turret movement or ship roll; two tactical maneuvers necessary for effective play.

The large throttle lever is very handy. It allows precise control and is comfortable to use. The stick itself has a nice contour and the button layout is decent. The layout will have your thumb doing most of the work, dealing with buttons 2-4 and the hat switch. The trigger button at the front of the stick is controlled with your index finger. The base of the joystick is nice and wide for stability and the base has 4 suction cups to hold it in place.

In use the stick has great tension- not too stiff or loose. Again, the throttle handle allows for very precise control. In flight sims the trim adjustments are handy to level out your craft without having to hold the stick slightly forward. This feature is missing from many of the recently released sticks and is a welcomed sight on the Phantom 2.

Setup 95% -

To setup the controller using the gameport connector plug the joystick in, start up your system and enter the game controller application. Select a CH Flightstick Pro and calibrate the device. Optionally, you can create a custom configuration and appropriately name it the Phantom 2. If you choose this option be sure to select a 4 button, 3 axis controller with a hat switch.

Setup for the USB connection is even easier. Connect the USB adapter, plug the joystick into a free USB port and Windows will auto-detect the joystick. At one point you will need to insert your Windows 98 CD so have it handy. As always, run the calibration and test routine to assure all is running well.

Software NA%-

No software is provided or necessary for setup or use.

Documentation 86%-

There is a 14 page multi-language manual for the PC Phantom Dual Mode Joystick. It describes setup as a gameport and USB device, describes the features of the stick and has a brief FAQ. There is not too much information there but not much is needed to operate or setup this stick.

The Logic3 website has a nice interface with product details and an on-line store. Both a European and US version of the site are available.

Overall Rating 89.3%-

The Logic3 PC Phantom 2 Dual Mode Joystick is a nice stick. It does not have any fancy features found with similar priced sticks. The lack of a button programming utility and rudder control could be an issue for some looking for a multi-purpose, primary controller. However, the stick is well made, ergonomically pleasing and reliable.

The CC recommends the Phantom 2 Joystick with those minor issues outstanding. The rudder control issue can be addressed by adding separate rudder pedals and the button programming utility is not really necessary since the majority of games and sims now offer in game button assignment. The great throttle handle of this stick is one of the best I've seen.

Pros-

• USB or gameport connection
• Large, easy to control throttle

Cons-

• Priced higher than similar featured sticks