Cyborg 3D Rumble Force Score: 85% Developer: Saitek

Function: Blasting onto the scene as Saitek's new 'affordable' answer to Force Feedback technology, the Cyborg 3D Rumble Force makes for a generally impressive set-up for the gaming enthusiast on a budget. Suitable for gaming of any kind, the Rumble Force takes a similar appearance to its other Cyborg 3D relatives. The highlight of this stick, however, is its use of Immersion Technology's TouchSence peripherals.

Performance: After installing the software package and plugging in the USB powered joystick, configuring the Cybord 3D for just about any game works out wonderfully. Included in the installation CD is Saitek's easy to use button programming software, which allows users to assign different keystrokes to each of the nine buttons (one trigger and eight individual fire buttons) found on the stick. These assigned keystrokes are then saved as 'profiles', which can be toggled from an icon in the system tray. The ergonomics of Saitek's Cyborg line of joysticks is slightly stripped down in this manifestation. However, the Cybord 3D Rumble Force still provides excellent usability and handling. Equipped with practically mirror image button locations, the Cybord 3D fits into both hands with no fuss. Being a 'righty' myself, I even found it comfortable to play a few sets of my favorite game with the left hand on the stick. A comforting hand rest platform is situated just above the base. Having midsize hands, I felt that the base was situated in just the right place to alleviate straining my arm during extended playing sessions. Other Saitek models allowed this platform to be adjustable. Smaller handed players might find this stationary platform to be unusable. Just like other Cyborg 3D controllers, the Rumble Force is fully equipped to make flight simulation enjoyable and real. Throttle response is nice and smooth allowing for slow even pressure or quick switches. In addition to 360-degree movement of the stick, a rudder pivot is also controlled from the shaft of the Rumble Force. Control over direction and movement feel much smoother in flight sim games than action/adventure due to this extra axis. The true highlight of the Rumble Force is its Force Feedback. Interestingly enough, this force feedback acts on a different set of variables than other joysticks in its class. Instead of encountering feedback from force and motion, the Rumble Force interprets signals representing explosions and firepower. Though it sounds less authentic than the standard in force feedback, the Rumble Force does well to represent different rumbling sensations for specific occurrences throughout game play.

Features: TouchSence Rumble Technology Four Thumb - Four Base Fire Buttons Easy to Use Configuration Tool for Fire Buttons and Trigger Eight-Direction POV switch Dual-Lever Throttle 3D Rudder Twist Handle Long Cord with USB connection for Optimum Usability. Fully Functional for both Left and Right Handed Play

Drawbacks & Problems:: Simply because of the nature of this joystick, there are obvious problems. As previously mentioned, the stationary platform/hand rest may seem more ornamental for smaller handed persons, and there are small issues in controlling the axis during non-flight simulation games. It is possible, however, to become accustomed to the initially awkward movement, given a little bit of practice. In addition, since this is a Force Feedback joystick, certain details are just unavoidable. The most obvious is the sometimes overbearing rattle incurred during the rumble effects. This racket often takes away from the feeling of true immersion as it serves as distraction from the game's sound. However, this is normal for just about every Force Feedback item available today, so there should be no real surprises in store with this one.

-==Boy, GameVortex Communications AKA Kyle Prestenback

Minimum System Requirements: PC Pentium 133MHz or higher with USB port/Microsoft Windows 98, Me 2000 and XP/ DirectX 7.0 compatible.   Test System: Windows Me, Intel Pentium III 600 Mhz, 8x DVD-Rom, 4MB S3 Savage IV video card