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

This comprehensive review delves into the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller, evaluating its performance across PC and PlayStation platforms, including Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4 Pro. The author's month-long experience provides a detailed assessment of its features, design, and shortcomings.

Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition: Unboxing and Contents

Unlike standard controllers, the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition arrives in a premium protective case. Included are the controller itself, a braided cable, a replacement six-button fightpad module, two gates, two analog stick caps, two d-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a blue wireless USB dongle. The included items, themed to match the Tekken 8 aesthetic, are neatly organized within the high-quality case. The author expresses hope for future availability of replacement parts.

Compatibility Across Platforms

The controller boasts compatibility with PS5, PS4, and PC. The author confirms seamless out-of-the-box functionality on Steam Deck, using the included dongle and PS5 mode settings. Wireless functionality on PS4 and PS5 also proved trouble-free, highlighting its value for cross-generation console testing.

Modular Design and Features

The controller's modularity is a key selling point, allowing for customization of stick layouts (symmetric or asymmetric), the inclusion of a fightpad, and adjustments to triggers, thumbsticks, and d-pads. The author showcases its adaptability for various game genres, citing examples such as Katamari Damacy Reroll and DOOM Eternal. Adjustable trigger stops are praised for their versatility across different game types. While multiple d-pad options are appreciated, the author prefers the default diamond shape.

However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is a significant drawback, especially considering the availability of more affordable controllers with rumble functionality. The author notes that this might be a limitation imposed on third-party PS5 controllers. The four paddle-like buttons are deemed useful, particularly for mapping L3, R3, L1, and R1.

Aesthetics and Ergonomics

The vibrant color scheme and Tekken 8 branding are visually appealing. While the controller's lightweight design is initially noted as a potential negative, it ultimately contributes to comfortable extended play sessions. The grip is highlighted as a major positive.

PS5 Performance

The controller's official PS5 license doesn't extend to PS5 power-on functionality, a limitation seemingly affecting many third-party PS5 controllers. The absence of haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support is reiterated. Touchpad support and all standard DualSense buttons are functional.

Steam Deck Performance

The controller's plug-and-play compatibility with Steam Deck is lauded, with proper recognition and functionality of the share button and touchpad.

Battery Life

Superior battery life compared to DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers is a major advantage, along with a clear low-battery indicator.

Software and iOS Compatibility

The author's inability to test the Microsoft Store-exclusive software is noted. Unfortunately, iOS compatibility proved unsuccessful.

Criticisms and Shortcomings

Key drawbacks include the lack of rumble, a low polling rate, the absence of Hall Effect sensors in the standard package (requiring a separate purchase), and the reliance on a dongle for wireless connectivity. The author emphasizes the disappointment of these shortcomings, especially considering the controller's high price point. The incompatibility of additional module color options with the controller's aesthetic is also mentioned.

Final Verdict

Despite extensive positive usage across various games, the controller's shortcomings, particularly the lack of rumble and the low polling rate, detract from its overall rating. The author concludes that while the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition is a good controller, it falls short of being truly amazing due to these issues and the added cost for Hall Effect sticks. The review concludes with a score of 4/5.