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 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, extra analog stick and D-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a wireless USB dongle. The included items are themed to match the Tekken 8 aesthetic, a unique feature not currently offered as replacement parts.
Compatibility and Connectivity
The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC, surprisingly including out-of-the-box Steam Deck compatibility via the included dongle. Wireless functionality on consoles requires the same dongle, switching modes for PS4 or PS5. This dual-console compatibility is highlighted as a significant advantage.
Features and Customization
The modular design allows for symmetric or asymmetric stick layouts, a fightpad for fighting games, adjustable triggers, and interchangeable thumbsticks and D-pads. The reviewer appreciates the trigger stop adjustability and multiple D-pad options, though they prefer the default diamond shape. A notable drawback is the absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control. The lack of rumble is considered disappointing, especially considering the affordability of controllers with this feature. Four rear paddles, mapped to L3, R3, L1, and R1, enhance gameplay.
Design and Ergonomics
The controller's vibrant color scheme is visually appealing, though perhaps less refined than the standard black model. While comfortable, it's deemed slightly lightweight. The grip is praised for enabling extended play sessions.
PS5 Performance
As an officially licensed controller, it lacks PS5 power-on functionality, a limitation apparently common to third-party PS5 controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro are unavailable. Touchpad and share button functionality are confirmed.
Steam Deck Performance
The controller's plug-and-play compatibility with Steam Deck is a significant plus, correctly identified as a PS5 controller with full share button and touchpad functionality.
Battery Life
The controller boasts significantly longer battery life than the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a key advantage, especially for Steam Deck users. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is a welcome feature.
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, its out-of-the-box functionality on other platforms is noted. iOS compatibility testing proved unsuccessful.
Shortcomings
The reviewer points out several drawbacks: lack of rumble, low polling rate, absence of Hall Effect sensors in the standard package (requiring a separate purchase), and the need for a wireless dongle. The low polling rate is highlighted as a significant issue compared to wired DualSense Edge performance. The lack of Hall Effect sensors in the initial purchase is also criticized.
Final Verdict
Despite extensive use and positive aspects like modularity and long battery life, the controller's shortcomings, especially the lack of rumble and the high price point considering its limitations, prevent it from achieving a perfect score. The reviewer awards a 4/5 rating, suggesting that addressing the identified issues could elevate it to a top-tier controller.
Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition Review Score: 4/5
Update: Additional details regarding the lack of rumble feature have been incorporated.
