I just started playing again. I am having problems programming my Saitek X52 controller to do what I want it to. It worked for this game before, but not now. What the heck?

Could you be more specific? You should be able to re-bind any axis or buttons in the options menu.

This might help;

https://www.vendetta-online.com/x/msgboard/5/17934

Are you programming it from the MatCatz editor or within VO? VO's control mapping screen is good enough for most uses, unless you want to make 3 entire x52 profile mappings for the 3 modes available on the X-52.

Be sure to disable your clutch button in the hardware profile (in windows) unless you really like hitting the throttle thumb as a modifier. Personally, it drives me nuts.

I am trying to use the VO Editor, but it keeps binding button 23 or 24, from the mode buttons, every time I try to bind a control. I cannot find the joystick in the hardware profiles.

aha!!! I remember now! The 3-mode dial switch on the right side of the flight stick sends a constant button press, depending which position it is in. I think 23-24-25. You have to dial it in between its indents to program in VO. If you start with it in mode 1 (red LED) and slowly turn towards mode 2 (purple), it will pass thru a short blue range in between.

Sorry it took me a moment to remember. I've been flying on the same X52 map for years now.

Thank you! I will try that, but what gets me is that I played for a long time on this X52 with no issues. But now... darn software updates.