The world of space simulation is entering a new era, and Thrustmaster is leading the charge with its highly anticipated Sol-R1 and Sol-R2 controllers. Designed with the needs of space pilots in mind, these sticks bring precision, customization, and immersion to a genre that’s been starved for purpose-built hardware. Whether you’re navigating asteroid fields in Star Citizen, managing power systems in Elite Dangerous, or engaging in zero-g dogfights in Hunternet Starfighter, the Sol-R series might just become the gold standard for space flight sim controllers.

A Major Leap for Space Sim Hardware

The Sol-R1 is a standalone flight stick, while the Sol-R2 offers a complete HOSAS (Hands On Stick And Stick) setup, bundling two Sol-R1s for full dual-stick control. This marks Thrustmaster’s first serious foray into the space sim arena, and the timing couldn’t be better. Space games are booming again, and for players seeking full 6-degree-of-freedom (6DOF) control, traditional HOTAS setups often fall short.

Each Sol-R stick boasts 44 programmable inputs, including hats, buttons, thumbsticks, wheels, and sliders. Built around Thrustmaster’s H.E.A.R.T. HallEffect magnetic sensors on every axis, they promise exceptional precision and durability — a clear evolution from the T.16000M legacy. With an ambidextrous design, twist-axis on both sticks, modular thumb/wrist rests, and sci-fi-inspired aesthetics complete with RGB lighting, these are not just tools — they’re cockpit immersion devices.

From Concept to Cockpit: The Development Stor

Unveiled on March 19, 2025, after three years of development, the Sol-R line has been carefully engineered to deliver an intuitive experience out-of-the-box for the space sim crowd. The sticks will officially release on April 16, 2025, and pre-orders are already underway.

The Sol-Rs build on feedback from a decade of community workarounds — most notably the dual T.16000M setups — and aim to offer a ready-made solution. The grips are fully ambidextrous, and the gimbal system (likely refined from the T.16000M) has received positive feedback for feel and durability. Internals have been significantly upgraded with 16-bit Hall sensors and improved mechanical stability.

Thrustmaster also ensured ecosystem compatibility: Sol-R grips are swappable with legacy and upcoming modular bases, including the anticipated AVA system. Whether you’re a seasoned sim veteran or just getting started, the modularity makes the Sol-R series a strong investment in a growing ecosystem.

Pricing, Availability & Where to Buy

Early reviews from creators like The NOOBIFIER1337 and outlets like TechRadar and PCGamesN have been glowing:

• Noobifier praised the Sol-R’s feature set and comfort during live Star Citizen combat scenarios, showing full 6DOF achieved with the built-in sliders and analog sticks.
• TechRadar highlighted ergonomics, saying the sticks “feel like magic” when properly mapped.
• PCGamesN called the Sol-R1 the “ultimate joystick experience” for space sim players, noting great build quality and responsiveness.

Criticisms have been few but fair — notably the learning curve in binding controls across 88 buttons (in dual-stick mode) and questions about the longevity of the plastic-heavy build compared to boutique competitors.

Community Buzz: Excitement Meets Scrutiny

Reddit threads, Elite forums, and sim communities are abuzz:

• Pros: Hall sensors, ambidextrous design, tons of buttons, sci-fi style, and a major brand finally supporting HOSAS.
• Concerns: Plastic gimbal skepticism, high price point, and whether it holds up vs. boutique builds like VKB Gladiator or Virpil.

Still, most agree: the Sol-R is a welcome evolution. For many, it’s the first time they can get a high-quality, dual-stick setup without DIY hacks.

How It Stacks Up: Sol-R vs. The Competition

Launch Drama? Not Really.

There’s been no major controversy beyond normal enthusiast nitpicking:

• Pricing backlash: Some say $219 is too much for plastic. Others counter with “you get what you pay for.”
• Gimbal speculation: Is it a refined T.16000M gimbal? Probably. But early feedback suggests it’s smoother.
• No Xbox support: A letdown for console players, but understandable given the complexity of dual-stick mapping.
• Marketing cheese: “Space is yours” campaign drew some chuckles, but no serious flak.

If Thrustmaster maintains quality control, Sol-R looks poised to be a long-term staple for PC space simmers.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

For serious fans of spaceflight, the Sol-R1 and Sol-R2 hit a sweet spot. They deliver high-end inputs, thoughtful ergonomics, and that ever-elusive feeling of being in the cockpit — without the intimidating setup of boutique gear.

While not the cheapest option, they offer unparalleled input density and ease of setup for dual-stick play. If your virtual hangar includes ships in Star Citizen, Elite Dangerous, or Hunternet Starfighter, the Sol-R might be your new favorite piece of hardware.

The stars have aligned — and so has Thrustmaster.

NextGenSetup.com will continue to cover the rollout and long-term performance of the Sol-R series. Stay tuned for post-launch impressions, config guides, and gameplay demos!