Hey there!
Buying Freespace 1+2 from GOG, something came to mind: I don't have a joystick anymore! I mean, I could (and will, until I get one) play with the mouse, but I always felt that this kind of game is the most fun with a good joystick. I'm planning to buy one, but I will probably only use it only for Freespace and less than a handful of other games, so it shouldn't be too expensive. Still, I don't want a completely crappy one.
Do you have any suggestions for me?

Today, I spent quite a bit of time setting up my Xbox 360 controller to work with Freespace 2. Not really a joystick, but it works really well and could be used for many future purchases, like a Xbox 360 or other titles that require a good joypad.
I Just used this program called Xpadder that was suggested on the Descent series thread. It basically lets me bind the buttons, d-pad, and analog sticks to correspond with the keyboard.

I still use my old Force Feedback 2 joystick. It's incredibly sturdy and the feedback really adds a nice touch, especially when you're unloading 3 Maxim cannons on a Shivan cruiser...

First of all, thanks for the answers.
@aggrocrag: I have a 360 pad myself. Not an original one, but with the same design. I just don't like playing flight-sims with that for some reason. I can't exactly say why, but those games are either mouse or "old school" joystick for me. I do like this Xpadder software, though. Thanks for that tip, didn't know it.
@MercFox1:
Nice suggestion. Looks good, the thing is: it seems to be rather rare these days. I haven't searched many places yet, but so far the best offer is on amazon marketplace: 127 Euros. Or has it always been that expensive? Either way, a bit much for me, to be honest =)
I'm looking at the Speed-Link SL-6640 Black Widow Flightstick right now, it looks alright. Has anybody had an encounter with this one yet?

Personnaly, i liked much the good old Sidewinder joysticks, but since they aren't produced anymore... I tried the Saitek Cyborg Evo Force, quite good, can be adjusted in most parts.
Force engine is heating a bit, but it can be really cold, in space, so it's quite useful :P

I use the Saitek X52 a bit pricyer than others but its a gr8 big joystick

I Agree with this... you can't go wrong with saitek sticks!

I picked up a Logitech Extreme 3D Pro not to long ago. I only use it for a few of the old LucasArts flight sims and now Freespace 1/2. Not that expensive and well built, haven't had any issues with it.

Saitek pro evo. Got it for Jump to Lightspeed and have cherished it ever since. It has a permanent place on my desk even when I'm not actively playing a space shooter because it is my favorite gaming device.

Okay, I've made up my mind and ordered the ST290 a minute ago. If it isn't good, I'll have to sue the entire "go for Saitek"-faction ;)
Thanks for the help!

Yes, the Saitek is a great choice if you aren't into flight sims and don't want to invest in a CH joystick. Saitek is usually recommended for people new to the genre or for people who play rarely/occasionally. If, for whatever reason, you decide to get serious in the genre, investing in a CH joystick would be a good idea. They aren't as comfortable as a Saitek, but the reliability and performance of the stick more than make up for it; it will last a very, very long time.

I myself have a Saitek since... damn, since forever :)
Despite whole lot of banging around, Freespace 1&2, Privateers, Wing Commanders and rest of that happy team it still lives. Let it be a testament to the sturdiness (in positive sense) of its construction.
To sum it up: Saitek = a good purchase,

:)
Guys, i believe i can kick ass with my mouse. I don't believe a joystick will bring more performance than a mouse in freespace.
What benefit you will have will be that you will have a more realistic feeling as driving the space ship. But as performance.... no way ... :)

I agree with that, i always played freespace with mouse :P
The only minus is when using something like a URSA : you really need a big desk, or adaptable mouse speed :P
About nice mouse control, i have to admit that Freelancer made it better, for mouse, taking away this "going to the right, lifting mouse, to the right, lifting, etc" :P
But besides, i can kill any joystick user with my ulysses and my mouse :P