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

This extensive review covers a month of using the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller across PC, PS5, PS4, and Steam Deck. The reviewer, a TouchArcade contributor, explores its modular design and compares it to other "Pro" controllers like the Xbox Elite and DualSense Edge.

Unboxing and Contents: The controller arrives in a high-quality protective case, alongside a braided cable, a six-button fightpad module, two gates, replacement analog stick and d-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a blue wireless USB dongle. The included items are Tekken 8 themed.

Compatibility: The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC (including Steam Deck, without requiring updates). Wireless functionality on consoles necessitates the included dongle. The reviewer notes its usefulness for cross-platform testing between PS4 and PS5.

Features and Customization: The modularity is a highlight, allowing for symmetric/asymmetric stick layouts and adjustments to triggers, thumbsticks, and d-pads. The reviewer praises the customizable trigger stops and multiple d-pad options but finds the default diamond d-pad preferable. However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of budget controllers with rumble. The four paddle buttons (though not removable paddles) are appreciated, especially for mapping L3/R3 and L1/R1.

Design and Feel: The controller's aesthetic is described as visually appealing, though perhaps less elegant than the standard black model. The comfortable grip allows for extended play sessions. While lighter than expected, this contributes to comfort during long gaming sessions.

PS5 Performance: The controller functions well on the PS5, supporting the touchpad and all standard DualSense buttons, but lacks haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro controls. It also cannot power on the PS5.

Steam Deck Performance: The controller works flawlessly on the Steam Deck using the dongle, correctly identifying as a PS5 controller and supporting the share button and touchpad.

Battery Life: The battery life is a major advantage over the DualSense and DualSense Edge, lasting considerably longer. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is a useful feature.

Software and iOS Compatibility: The reviewer couldn't test the software (available only on the Microsoft Store), but the controller functions without software on other platforms. iOS compatibility is absent.

Negatives: The lack of rumble, low polling rate, absence of Hall Effect sensors (requiring a separate purchase), and the need for a wireless dongle are significant drawbacks. The reviewer expresses disappointment that the Hall Effect sensors aren't included, especially given the price.

Overall: Despite its strengths, including modularity and long battery life, the controller's high price point is offset by the lack of rumble, low polling rate, and extra costs for essential features like Hall Effect sensors. The reviewer gives it a 4/5 rating, highlighting its potential but emphasizing the need for improvements in a future iteration.