PlayStation Analog Joystick


The PlayStation Analog Joystick is Sony's first analog controller for the PlayStation, and is the precursor to the PlayStation Dual Analog Controller. It is often incorrectly referred to as the "Sony Flightstick".

History

Announced to the public in August 1995, the Analog Joystick was released to the public in Japan in early April 1996.

Features

The Analog Joystick used potentiometer technology previously used on consoles such as the Vectrex; instead of relying on binary eight-way switches, the controller can detect minute angular changes through the entire range of motion. The stick also features a thumb-operated digital hat switch on the right joystick, corresponding to the traditional D-pad, and used for instances when simple digital movements were necessary.
A compatibility mode for the Analog Joystick was included in the Dual Analog Controller, Sony's first analog revision of its original gamepad design.
PS1 games that support the PS1 Analog Joystick have an "Analog Joystick Compatible" icon on the back cover.
The Analog Joystick has a switch to select either Analog or Digital mode. When in the Digital mode, both sticks function as the gamepad on a regular PS1 controller. Older PS1 games that do not support the PS1 DualShock sticks can work with the Analog Joystick.

List of games with Analog Joystick support

PlayStation
PlayStation 2
There are other PS2 games that also can use the PS1 Analog Joystick, but only in Digital Mode. Metal Slug Anthology, Gradius III, Gradius IV and other games that normally use just the Gamepad and Buttons for controls.

Reception

GamePros The Rat Baron praised the controller for its comfort, tight control, button layout, and analog movement, though he expressed doubt that most players would go for it given the high price tag.
The PlayStation Analog Joystick did not sell well in Japan, reportedly due to its high cost and bulky size.

Other

The Analog Joystick can be connected to the PC via a USB adapter and also via a DirectPad Pro style parallel port interface which can be accessed under Windows using the DirectPad or other drivers. The Allegro library provides the same functionality for developers.