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

This comprehensive review covers a month's experience with the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller across PC, PS5, PS4 Pro, and Steam Deck. The reviewer, a seasoned gamer, explores its modular design and performance against other premium 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 wireless USB dongle. The accessories are themed to match the Tekken 8 aesthetic, which, while visually appealing, currently lacks readily available replacement parts.

Compatibility Across Platforms

The controller boasts compatibility with PS5, PS4, and PC. The reviewer successfully used it on Steam Deck without needing updates, highlighting its out-of-the-box functionality. Wireless operation on PS consoles requires the included dongle. Its PS4 compatibility is a significant advantage for cross-generation testing.

Modular Design and Features

The controller's modularity is a key selling point, allowing customization of stick layout (symmetric or asymmetric), the inclusion of a fightpad, 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, though they found the default diamond shape d-pad to their liking.

However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of more affordable controllers with rumble. This absence appears to be a limitation imposed on third-party PS5 controllers. The four paddle-like buttons offer extra functionality, though the reviewer would have preferred removable, true paddles.

Aesthetics and Ergonomics

The controller's Tekken 8 themed design, featuring light blue, pink, and purple accents, is visually striking. While not as sleek as the standard black model, it's well-executed. The controller is comfortable and lightweight, promoting extended play sessions without fatigue. The grip is particularly praised.

PS5 Performance

While officially licensed, the controller can't power on the PS5, a common limitation for third-party controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro are absent. However, touchpad and share button functionality are fully supported.

Steam Deck Experience

The controller works seamlessly with Steam Deck, using the dongle with the official docking station. It's correctly recognized as a PS5 controller, with share button and touchpad functionality working as expected, exceeding the performance of the reviewer's DualSense controller in some games.

Battery Life

The controller significantly outperforms the DualSense and DualSense Edge in terms of battery life, a major plus, especially for extended Steam Deck gaming sessions. A low battery indicator on the touchpad provides a helpful visual cue.

Software and iOS Compatibility

The controller's software, available only on the Microsoft Store, was untested due to the reviewer's lack of Windows access. However, the out-of-the-box functionality on other platforms is highlighted. Unfortunately, it proved incompatible with iOS devices.

Shortcomings

The controller's main drawbacks include the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of Hall Effect sensors in the standard package (requiring an additional purchase), and the dongle requirement for wireless use. The low polling rate is a significant issue for competitive gaming, while the omission of Hall Effect sensors adds extra cost.

Final Verdict

After extensive use, the reviewer concludes that the controller offers a great experience but is hampered by several shortcomings given its price. The lack of rumble (potentially a Sony limitation), the dongle, the extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and the low polling rate prevent it from reaching its full potential. While "very good," it falls short of "amazing" due to these factors.

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