Many modern flight simulators have built-in legacy DirectInput support or dedicated community mapping files.
DCS World features excellent, native support for the SideWinder Force Feedback 2. Plug the joystick in before launching the game.
: Windows 10 automatically detects the USB version and installs generic HID (Human Interface Device) drivers.
🔽 GitHub – "SidewinderDrivers" by VMMark (Search this on Google or go directly to the repository; direct links change but the project name is constant)
: 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.