Logitech acquires flight stick maker Saitek

Logitech takes over the maker of game accessories Saitek from Mad Catz for 13 million dollars, converted almost 12 million euros. Logitech wants to supplement its own product lines with the simulation products that Saitek makes, such as flight sticks.

Logitech acquires the Saitek brand name and product portfolio from Mad Catz. In 2007, Saitek acquired Saitek for $30 million. Saitek was founded in 1979 by the Swiss Eric Winkler and mainly made chess computers in the 1980s and early 1990s.

Later, the company specialized in the production of flight sticks and other accessories for simulation software on the PC. One of the reasons Logitech is acquiring Saitek is the arrival of VR simulation games, the company writes. “We believe that dedicated controllers will drive and enhance the overall VR experience,” said Logitech Vice President Ujesh Desai.

The product line will complement Logitech’s G line of gaming accessories. Logitech already makes racing wheels in this line. This year Saitek released the Pro Flight X-56 Rhino HOTAS, a two-piece joystick aimed at playing space sims.