EA Motive Montreal studio has delivered a focused dogfighting game with Star Wars: Squadrons and in some fantastic news for console players, HOTAS support is confirmed! This means that if you're on Xbox One, you can use a joystick setup just like on PC. There aren't many compatible sticks given how niche the genre is on console but the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One (opens in new tab) is our top pick as one of the best Xbox One HOTAS controllers for Star Wars: Squadrons in 2020.
Microsoft Flight Simulator essentially caused a run on the market and finding joysticks in stock right now is proving extremely difficult. We'll continue combing through online stores and providing updates where available.
Best Overall: Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One
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One of only a couple of joysticks officially licensed for Xbox One usage, the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One is easily the best choice. It has a relatively low cost at only $80, while it's very easy to set up. You can adjust the stick resistance and with the Dual-Rudder system, you can play by tilting the lever or rotating the handle. The weighted base ensures that no matter how frenetic the action gets, your setup should stay in place. It does lack a headset jack however, which could be annoying if you want to talk while playing.
Best Alternative: HORI Hotas Flight Stick
If you're looking to spend a lot more money, there's also the HORI Hotas Flight Stick. It's $200 which is a huge leap in price tag. The build quality is a little more subjective, with plastic components that may not hold up well over time. At the same time, it also includes a headset jack, so you can keep talking with your friends while playing.
Bottom line
While it's fantastic that Star Wars: Squadrons supports HOTAS setups for consoles, the reality is that there aren't a lot of great sticks available. Additionally, those sticks that are available are frequently going of stock. If gunning down X-Wings and TIE Fighters with a joystick across the various list of Star Wars: Squadrons maps and locations is something you're really passionate about, your best bet is the Thrustmaster T-Flight Hotas One (opens in new tab).
If you have the cash to splash, the HORI Hotas Flight Stick (opens in new tab) is a far more expensive option but it has a headset jack, so you can stay connected with your friends and squadmates online.
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