All good points Mike. I am not the only one who attests to the game pad theory.

It seems the manufacturers and marketing brainiacs are always trying to break down long held beliefs and barriers to aid the consumer in entering any endeavor. In this case, it is more in keeping with the internal understanding that there are many people who would enjoy this hobby and would truly like to learn but do not live within driving distance of a club that offers instruction. And where these people may not have an instructor, they do have the internet.

Now, they may not be offering the easiest, but they are offering a plane that is easier than what was previously available. And in the end, they are all about selling products, even if they disguise it by claiming to 'promote the hobby.'