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, examining its performance across PC and PlayStation platforms, including Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4 Pro. The author's month-long experience provides a detailed look at its features, compatibility, and overall usability.

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

Unlike standard controllers, the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition boasts a premium package. Included are the controller itself, a durable braided cable, a high-quality protective case, a swappable six-button fightpad module, two sets of gate options, extra analog stick and D-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a blue wireless USB dongle. All items are neatly organized within the protective case. Note that the included accessories are themed to match the Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition aesthetic, and replacements aren't currently widely available.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

The Victrix controller seamlessly integrates with PS5, PS4, and PC. The author successfully tested its out-of-the-box compatibility with the Steam Deck using the included dongle and a docking station, highlighting its functionality without requiring updates. Wireless operation on PlayStation consoles also utilizes the same dongle, functioning flawlessly on both PS4 Pro and PS5. This cross-platform compatibility proves particularly beneficial for comparing game performance across different PlayStation generations.

Modular Design and Features

The controller's key selling point is its modularity. Users can switch between symmetric and asymmetric stick layouts, utilize the included fightpad for fighting games, and customize triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads. This adaptability caters to diverse gaming preferences and genres. The author highlights the adjustable trigger stops, beneficial for both analog and digital trigger support, and expresses satisfaction with the default D-pad, though acknowledging its limitations for platforming.

However, the absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control support is noted as a significant drawback, especially considering the availability of more affordable controllers offering rumble features. This lack of features, the author suggests, may be due to limitations imposed on third-party PS5 controllers. The controller does include four paddle-like buttons, which the author finds useful, although they're not fully removable paddles.

Aesthetics and Ergonomics

The controller’s vibrant color scheme and Tekken 8 branding are visually appealing. While not as sleek as the standard black model, the light blue, pink, and purple accents create a distinct aesthetic. The controller's comfortable design, despite being lightweight, allows for extended gaming sessions without fatigue. The grip significantly enhances playability.

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 downside. However, touchpad functionality and all standard DualSense buttons are fully supported.

Steam Deck Performance

The controller's seamless Steam Deck integration is a significant plus, functioning correctly with the dongle and docking station. It's recognized as a PS5 Victrix controller, with share button and touchpad functionality fully supported. This contrasts favorably with the author's experiences with DualSense controller recognition issues in some PC games.

Battery Life

The controller's extended battery life surpasses that of the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a major advantage. The low-battery indicator on the touchpad further enhances usability, especially during Steam Deck gameplay.

Software and iOS Compatibility

The author was unable to test the controller's software due to its Microsoft Store exclusivity. However, the out-of-the-box functionality on Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4 is highlighted. Attempts to use the controller on iOS devices (iPad and iPhone) were unsuccessful.

Shortcomings

The review points out several drawbacks: the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of Hall Effect sensors in the standard configuration (requiring separate purchase), and the dongle requirement for wireless functionality. The low polling rate is cited as a significant issue compared to wired DualSense Edge performance. The lack of Hall Effect sensors and the aesthetic incompatibility of separately purchased modules are also criticized.

Final Verdict

Despite extensive use across multiple platforms and games, the controller's shortcomings, particularly the lack of rumble and the low polling rate, are considered significant flaws considering its price point. While the modular design and compatibility are appreciated, the unmet expectations in certain areas prevent it from achieving a perfect score. The review concludes that the controller possesses great potential but needs improvements for a future iteration.

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