Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8: A Tailor-made Gaming Experience

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, initially sought a modular controller to complement their existing high-end options.

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 included items, themed to match the Tekken 8 aesthetic, are well-organized within the protective case. The reviewer expresses hope for future availability of replacement parts.

Compatibility and Connectivity:

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 consoles requires the dongle and selecting the appropriate console mode. The reviewer highlights the convenience of PS4 compatibility, a feature lacking in many of their existing PS4 controllers.

Features and Customization:

The controller's modular design allows for symmetric or asymmetric stick layouts, a fightpad for fighting games, adjustable triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads. The reviewer appreciates the adaptability for different game genres, citing examples like Katamari Damacy Reroll and DOOM Eternal. Adjustable trigger stops are also praised. However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support is a significant drawback, particularly given the controller's price point. The four paddle buttons, while useful, are not removable, a point of minor criticism.

Design and Ergonomics:

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 without fatigue. The lightweight design contributes to this comfort. The build quality is deemed satisfactory but not quite as premium as the DualSense Edge.

PS5 Performance:

While officially licensed, the controller cannot power on the PS5, a limitation seemingly common to third-party PS5 controllers. The lack of haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support remains a concern. However, touchpad and share button functionality are fully supported.

Steam Deck Performance:

The controller functions flawlessly on Steam Deck, correctly identified as a PS5 controller with full share button and touchpad support. This is noted as superior to the reviewer's DualSense experience with certain PC games.

Battery Life:

The battery life is significantly longer than the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a considerable advantage. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is also appreciated.

Software and iOS Compatibility:

The reviewer couldn't test the controller software due to their non-Windows environment. However, the controller's plug-and-play functionality on other platforms is highlighted. Attempts to use the controller on iOS devices (wired and wireless) were unsuccessful.

Shortcomings:

The most significant drawbacks are the absence of rumble, low polling rate, the lack of included Hall Effect sensors (requiring a separate purchase), and the need for a dongle for wireless operation. The reviewer questions the omission of Hall Effect sensors in the initial package. The incompatibility of the optional colored modules with the Tekken 8 aesthetic is also mentioned.

Overall Conclusion:

Despite extensive use and positive aspects like modularity and comfort, the controller's high price point is not fully justified by its current shortcomings. The lack of rumble (possibly a Sony limitation), dongle dependency, extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and low polling rate are significant drawbacks. While a very good controller, the reviewer concludes it falls short of being truly amazing.

Final Score: 4/5