In older aircraft, you would've been staring at a wall of gauges, lamps, and buttons i.e., C130[1]. These, for the most part, have been consolidated into large multi-function displays (MFDs) like the C130 AMP [2] or C-5M [3] with the remaining analog controls are either there for emergency use or for the pilot's benefit like the yoke.
The MFDs generally reduce pilot workload by consolidating relevant data into task-oriented screens. However, the main driver was more likely the significant weight reductions and costs associated with manufacture and maintenance of the aircraft - fewer cockpit components and simpler wiring.
Ultimately, the types of controls are similar between the older and new aircraft. The notable exception is the keyboard(?!) in the A380s [4].
[1] http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:C-130_Hercules_cockpi... [2] C130 AMP http://www.edwards.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/091109... [3] C5M http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9f/C-5M_Cock... [4] A380 http://www.aerospace-technology.com/uploads/newsarticle/6889...