Hi Customdrills,
I am not from Laminar Research; just a flight simmer from downunder.
If your joystick has a USB connection then you should not experience any problems.
Have a look at the following link found at https://questions.x-plane.com/23460/wingman-attack-joystick-throttle-controls-aircrafts-yoke If you follow the advice then it should all work. Others who are new to X-Plane have found the information helpful.
Be methodical because the important issue is making sure you do not assign two instructions/processes to the same button or lever. Alternatively two levers etc to the same instruction.
Try the installation first. Start with the Cessna and then progress to more advanced aircraft as you become more experienced with X-Plane.
If you wish to proceed in that direction it may be more prudent to advance to a combination of yoke and pedals. Other than cost there seems to be an abundance of options for aircraft controls.
In relation to joysticks or joystick/throttle combinations, there are quite a few available on the market. Start looking at this site found at https://store.x-plane.org/
This site is dedicated just to X-Plane. It is not part of Laminar Research. When you go to this link the pictorials scroll through a number of products including a joystick that has been developed and released in recent times. Reviews I have seen suggest it is close to the top of the range for performance and quality. When at this site have a look at the tab marked "joystick" on the blue banner across the top of the page. Have a good look at each drop down menu for more info.
The Gladiator joystick is a good alternative/replacement for the Saitek products It has 2 price ranges. Make sure you click on the product and view the associated video (same). Thomas always provides good information. He is regarded as one of the best X-Plane product reviewers.
Hope this helps.
Good luck and welcome to X-Plane.
Glenn