Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition Controller Review – Customizable, Comfortable, but Lacking in Ways

This extensive review covers the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller, evaluating its performance across PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Steam Deck. The reviewer spent over a month testing the controller's features and modularity.

Unboxing and Contents: The package includes the controller, a braided cable, a high-quality protective case, a six-button fightpad module, two gates, extra analog stick and D-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a wireless USB dongle. The Tekken 8 themed design elements are a highlight, though replacement parts aren't currently widely available.

Compatibility: The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC, including out-of-the-box compatibility with Steam Deck using the included dongle. Wireless functionality on PlayStation consoles requires the dongle.

Features and Modularity: The controller's key selling point is its modular design. Users can swap between symmetric and asymmetric stick layouts, utilize the fightpad, and adjust triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads. This adaptability caters to various gaming needs. The reviewer praises the customizable trigger stops and multiple D-pad options but notes the absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro controls. The four rear paddles (though not removable) offer additional button mapping options.

Design and Feel: The vibrant Tekken 8 themed design is visually appealing. The controller is lightweight and comfortable for extended gaming sessions. While the materials are good, they don't quite match the premium feel of the DualSense Edge.

PS5 Performance: The controller functions well on PS5, supporting the touchpad and standard buttons, but lacks haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro controls. It also can't power on the PS5, a limitation seemingly common among third-party controllers.

Steam Deck Performance: The controller works flawlessly on Steam Deck, correctly identified and with full functionality, including the share button and touchpad.

Battery Life: A significant advantage over the DualSense and DualSense Edge is its superior battery life. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is a helpful feature.

Software: The controller's software, available on the Microsoft Store, wasn't tested due to the reviewer's lack of Windows access. iOS compatibility was also unsuccessful.

Negatives: The controller's drawbacks include the lack of rumble, a low polling rate, the absence of Hall Effect sensors in the standard package, and the requirement of a dongle for wireless use. The reviewer expresses disappointment with the lack of rumble, especially for a "pro" controller, and the extra cost for Hall Effect stick modules. The aesthetic mismatch if purchasing separately colored modules is also a concern.

Overall: After extensive use, the reviewer concludes that the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller is excellent but not perfect. The lack of rumble (potentially a Sony restriction), dongle dependency, extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and the low polling rate hold it back from being truly exceptional, especially considering its price point.

Final Score: 4/5