Microsoft has effectively deprecated that link. The community driver above is the only safe path.
MSFS 2020 recognizes the stick inputs but does not natively send force feedback signals to the hardware. To fix this, the community relies on a brilliant, free open-source utility called XPorter or AirForcePlayer . Microsoft has effectively deprecated that link
: The joystick's centering force is activated by a small optical sensor located at the back of the grip, which detects when your hand is holding the stick. To fix this, the community relies on a
If a Windows Update breaks your connection, open Device Manager , right-click the SideWinder, select Uninstall Device , and unplug the USB. Restart your computer and plug it back in to force a fresh driver reconstruction. Restart your computer and plug it back in
You should see "SideWinder Force Feedback 2" listed with a status of .
There is an optical hand sensor on the front of the joystick grip. The force feedback motors will only engage when your hand is actively covering this sensor. If it fails, place a small piece of dark tape over the sensor hole to keep the motors permanently armed. Issue 3: Driver Errors After Windows 10 Updates
Windows 10 automatically supports the Microsoft SideWinder Force Feedback 2 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.