Victrix Pro BFG: Customizable Tekken 8 Controller

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.

Unboxing and Contents:

The package includes the controller, 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 blue wireless USB dongle. The Tekken 8 themed design elements are noted, with a hope for future availability of replacement parts.

Compatibility:

The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC. Remarkably, it functioned immediately on Steam Deck without updates, utilizing the PS5 profile. Wireless functionality on consoles requires the included dongle.

Features and Modularity:

The modular design is a highlight, enabling customization of stick layout (symmetrical or asymmetrical), the inclusion of a fightpad, adjustable triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads. The reviewer appreciates the trigger stop adjustment and multiple D-pad options.

However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is considered a significant drawback, especially given the price point and the availability of more affordable controllers with rumble. The four paddles are useful, but the reviewer wishes for removable, more traditional paddles.

Design and Feel:

The aesthetic is praised, with vibrant colors and Tekken 8 branding. While comfortable, the controller is deemed slightly too light. The grip is excellent, allowing for extended play sessions. The build quality is described as ranging from premium to acceptable, falling short of the DualSense Edge's feel.

PS5 Performance:

PS5 compatibility is official, but the controller cannot power on the console—a limitation noted for some third-party controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro are absent. Touchpad and share button functionality are present.

Steam Deck Performance:

The controller works flawlessly on Steam Deck, recognized correctly as a PS5 Victrix controller with full share button and touchpad functionality.

Battery Life:

The battery life is significantly superior to the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a major advantage. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is also appreciated.

Software and iOS Compatibility:

The software is unavailable for testing due to the reviewer's lack of Windows access. iOS compatibility is absent.

Negatives:

Key drawbacks include the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of included Hall Effect sensors (requiring an additional purchase), and the necessity of a dongle for wireless use. The reviewer expresses disappointment that Hall Effect sensors aren't standard. The aesthetic incompatibility of separately purchased modules is also mentioned.

Overall Review:

After extensive use, the controller is deemed excellent but not perfect. The lack of rumble (possibly a Sony limitation), dongle requirement, extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and low polling rate are significant drawbacks at the $200 price point. The potential for greatness is acknowledged, but current shortcomings prevent a perfect score.

Review Score: 4/5