THERE'S NO QUESTION that the right tool makes all the difference. You can't blow up aliens properly without a joystick and you can't experience anything like the thrills of Formula One racing with a gamepad. There are so many game controllers out there I can't provide a definitive guide to the best, but here are a few good models that can be found in most Hong Kong computer shops. Some of the controllers are for computers only, but most have versions for game consoles too.
Thrustmaster Top Gun Afterburner
The reference to the Tom Cruise movie may be naff, but Thrustmaster is an old and trusted name in the joystick world. The Thrustmaster Afterburner has a multifunction joystick and a throttle with rudder functions, both of which are essential to the flight simulator buff. The throttle can be attached to the joystick or placed on the opposite side of the keyboard to give a more realistic 'in-cockpit' feeling. The Afterburner sells for about $900.
Gravis Eliminator Aftershock
I spent a fair amount of time trying to find a game controller that stands out from the crowd, the appearance and button arrangement of most being similar. The Eliminator has two small thumb-joysticks, which is almost standard these days, but the difference lies in the fact that the Eliminator's are mounted opposite each other and high up on the controller. It is a small point, but this balanced arrangement makes manoeuvring feel natural, and placing the sticks high, rather than low as on the Logitech wireless, may make for a more comfortable position if you have large hands. The Eliminator costs $225.
PCally AirStick Mid-Air Programmable Joystick