Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8: Customizable, Comfortable

This extensive review covers a month's experience with the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller across PC, PS5, PS4, and Steam Deck. The reviewer, a TouchArcade contributor, explores its modularity and performance against other "Pro" controllers like the Xbox Elite and DualSense Edge.

Unboxing the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition

Beyond the standard controller and cable, this edition includes a high-quality protective case, a six-button fightpad module, two sets of analog stick and D-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a blue wireless USB dongle. The included accessories share the Tekken 8 theme, though replacements aren't currently widely available.

Compatibility and Connectivity

The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC, surprisingly including out-of-the-box Steam Deck compatibility via the included dongle. Wireless functionality on consoles requires the dongle and selecting the appropriate PS4 or PS5 mode. This cross-platform functionality is highlighted as a significant advantage, especially for PS4 testing.

Features and Customization

The modular design is a key selling point, allowing for symmetric or asymmetric stick layouts, swappable fightpads, adjustable triggers, and interchangeable thumbsticks and D-pads. This adaptability caters to diverse gaming needs. The reviewer appreciates the adjustable trigger stops and multiple D-pad options but notes the default diamond D-pad isn't ideal for platformers.

A notable drawback is the absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro controls. While the reviewer isn't heavily reliant on gyro, the lack of rumble is considered disappointing for a controller in this price range, especially considering the rumble capabilities of less expensive alternatives. The reviewer notes potential third-party restrictions on rumble for PS5 controllers. Four rear paddles (though not fully removable) are included, offering additional button mapping.

Design and Ergonomics

The controller boasts an attractive design with vibrant colors and Tekken 8 branding. While comfortable, its lightweight design is a double-edged sword, preferred by the reviewer for extended play sessions but potentially less substantial than some might prefer. The grip is praised for its effectiveness.

PS5 Performance

While officially licensed, the controller cannot power on the PS5, a limitation seemingly common among third-party PS5 controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro remain absent. Touchpad and share button functionality are fully supported.

Steam Deck Performance

The controller's seamless Steam Deck compatibility is a highlight, correctly identified as a PS5 controller with full share button and touchpad functionality. This is contrasted with the reviewer's experiences with inconsistent DualSense recognition in certain PC games.

Battery Life

The controller's extended battery life significantly surpasses that of the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a major advantage, especially for Steam Deck use. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is also appreciated.

Software and iOS Compatibility

Software customization, available only on the Microsoft Store, was untested due to the reviewer's lack of Windows access. The controller lacks iOS compatibility, failing to connect wirelessly or wired on iPad and iPhone devices.

Shortcomings

The review points out several significant drawbacks: the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of included Hall Effect sensors (requiring a separate purchase), and the necessity of a dongle for wireless operation. The reviewer expresses disappointment that the Hall Effect sensors are not standard, especially considering the price point. The aesthetic incompatibility of separately purchased modules with the themed controller is also noted.

Final Verdict

After extensive use across multiple platforms and games, the reviewer concludes that the controller is excellent but not perfect. Its high price point is not fully justified by its current state, particularly due to the lack of rumble (possibly a Sony limitation), the dongle requirement, the extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and the low polling rate. The reviewer suggests that addressing these issues could elevate the controller to a top contender.

Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition Review Score: 4/5