Going into this review, I was skeptical that this odd, yet really cool looking stick would be able to replace my beloved
Wingman. Boy was I ever wrong. After a few missions with the
Cyborg EVO, I was hooked. First of all, the
EVO is one of the most people friendly joysticks I've ever seen. The handle affords you a good grasp and is covered with a thin rubber-like substance that gives you added grip as well as keeping the stick (and your hands) relatively dry. Sitting atop the shaft is a button/trigger platform. The main trigger is big and easy to get to - which is good because this is the button you'll use the most. The rest of the platform is adorned with 5 buttons and an 8-way POV hat. Yeah -- you heard me right, five buttons. As crowded as this may seem, the layout is very natural and it's all easy to get to. Plus they all work like a charm -- which is always a good thing. The POV-hat also works well, although it took me a little getting used to since I've never used one before.
The base is curved in a bit on the sides, making it easy to comfortably sit on your lap while playing. The back of the base has a really nice throttle stick that gives just enough resistance without being a pain. This was one of my main concerns with my Wingman since the throttle would move with the slightest breeze. Six programmable buttons -- three on each side, flank each side. These buttons are also in a great spot and fall naturally under the thumb of your weak hand (the one not on the stick). So lefties will use the three on the right and vice versa.
Wait -- did I type that right? A left-handed controller? Surely you jest?
Perhaps one of the best features ever conceived for a controller - the Cyborg EVO works for both right and left-handed people. How? Aside from the various buttons scattered all over the stick, there are also three metal buttons on it -- two are mounted on the button platform and one on the shaft. The bottom knob adjusts the palm grip to either side of the stick as well as allowing you to adjust the height. The knob on the side of the platform tilts the platform to either the left or right, while the one in front adjusts the height of the bottom three buttons. Didn't I say this thing was people friendly? Topping off the list of customizable features, Saitek also included a disc that allows you to easily program all the EVO's buttons and axes to fit your needs.
As far as handling goes, the EVO is top-notch. If you're having a performance problem, check the settings since there's a good chance you'll find your fix there.
