This is an exceptional flight sim. Unlike many space sims that came before it, in I-War, you're flying a larger capital ship, like a frigate, rather than a small, nimble fighter. This, along with the inclusion of a fully Newtonian-based flight model and four separate but completely necessary stations to switch between during missions makes this one of the more complex space sims you'll find. You definitely need a joystick with this one, and one with a hat-switch to boot.
If you're ready to take it on, though, you'll be granted one of the most satisfying space sim experiences around, with an excellent story, wonderful missions, exceptional combat, and, in my opinion, the best opening cinematic in any game, bar none.
Overall, if you have any interest in space combat, and own -- or are thinking of getting a joystick -- then NOT getting I-War would be a disservice. Heck, I own it on disk and I'm buying the GoG version. Enjoy!