This game is all strategy and quick reflexes, so if your having trouble try programing the key board commands that you use the most onto your joystick.
Also if you want to get promoted more, awarded more etc.
On some missions after you have beaten the objectives try taking out some more enemies and if you start getting wasted, hit q then spacebar you will be in your hanger with the objectives still completed, But don't quit until you've completed the objectives.
We have more cheats and tips for this game here, Star Wars: X-Wing Alliance cheats
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