So I broke down and bought this game and, while it took me about 30 minutes or so learning how to fly, i'm really liking it. For me, it's everything I've looked for in a game with space travel, exploration, trading, and combat (among other things you can do). Too bad it isn't Trek, but oh well..
I started with the keyboard and mouse, which is doable. But I agree that to get the full experience (short of using Oculus Rift), a joystick and throttle combo is HIGHLY recommended. I broke out my Saitek x45 set from my Flight-Sim days and I am hooked.
The game is in its infancy with a big vision for development. But as a first release, it is SOLID. The universe is basically a 1:1 scale re-creation of the entire Milky Way galaxy, with ~400 billion star systems. Behemoth. All known stars, celestial objects, and currently-known exoplanets are included and added regularly, while the rest of the unknowns are procedurally generated.
There are a lot of beautiful places out there. I too am excited for them to add atmospheric flight and planetary landing, along with better multi-player cohesion. Star Citizen is expected to offer these kinds of features too, but if you're looking to set sail in a vast universe now then, next to EvE online, this game is a contender (if not easier to play!).
Feel free to add me as well, if you'd like. My CMDR's name is Zelryn.
Steve