Victrix Pro BFG: Customizable Powerhouse for Tekken Dominance

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 overall performance against other "Pro" controllers like the Xbox Elite and DualSense Edge.

Unboxing and Contents:

The package includes the controller, a 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 wireless USB dongle. The Tekken 8 themed design elements are noted, with a hope for future availability of replacement parts.

Compatibility:

The controller seamlessly works on PS5, PS4, and PC (including Steam Deck without needing updates). Wireless functionality requires the included dongle and selecting the appropriate console mode. Its PS4 compatibility is highlighted as a significant advantage.

Features and Modularity:

The modular design allows for customization with symmetric/asymmetric stick layouts, a fightpad, adjustable triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads. The reviewer praises the trigger stop adjustability and D-pad options, though they prefer the default diamond shape. The absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is criticized, especially considering the price point and availability of these features in cheaper controllers. The four paddle buttons are appreciated, although the reviewer wishes for removable paddles.

Design and Feel:

The controller's aesthetic is praised, although it's deemed slightly less elegant than the standard black model. The comfortable grip and lightweight design are highlighted as positive aspects, allowing for extended gaming sessions. The material quality is described as a mix of premium and acceptable.

PS5 Performance:

While officially licensed, the controller cannot power on the PS5. The lack of haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro is reiterated. Touchpad and share button functionality are confirmed.

Steam Deck Performance:

The controller functions perfectly on the Steam Deck, correctly identified as a PS5 controller, with share button and touchpad support.

Battery Life:

The controller boasts significantly longer battery life than the DualSense and DualSense Edge, with a low battery indicator on the touchpad.

Software and iOS Compatibility:

The reviewer couldn't test the software due to their Windows environment. iOS compatibility is confirmed as lacking.

Negatives:

The lack of rumble, low polling rate, absence of Hall Effect sensors in the standard model, and the dongle requirement for wireless are significant drawbacks. The reviewer expresses frustration about the extra cost for Hall Effect stick modules and their incompatibility with the controller's aesthetic.

Overall Review:

Despite extensive use and positive aspects like modularity and battery life, several issues—particularly the lack of rumble, low polling rate, and additional costs for desired features—prevent the controller from achieving a perfect score. The reviewer gives it a 4/5 rating, highlighting its potential but emphasizing the need for improvements in a future iteration. The high price point is a key factor in the criticism.