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

This extensive review covers a month of using 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 controller arrives in a high-quality protective case, including the controller itself, a braided cable, 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 are themed to match the Tekken 8 aesthetic.

Compatibility: The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC (including Steam Deck out-of-the-box). Wireless functionality requires the included dongle. The reviewer notes its compatibility with PS4 as a significant advantage, especially given the lack of other PS4 controllers working on other platforms.

Features and Modularity: The controller's modular design is a key selling point, allowing for customization of stick layout (symmetric or asymmetric), the inclusion of a fightpad, adjustable triggers, and interchangeable thumbsticks and D-pads. The reviewer praises the trigger stop adjustability and D-pad options. However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of these features in cheaper controllers. Four paddle-like buttons are included, but the reviewer wishes for removable, true paddles.

Design and Feel: The controller's aesthetic is praised for its vibrant colors and Tekken 8 branding. While comfortable, the reviewer finds it slightly too light. The grip is excellent, allowing for extended play sessions. The build quality is described as ranging from premium to simply "fine," falling short of the DualSense Edge's feel.

PS5 Specifics: The controller works well on the PS5, but lacks haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support. It also cannot be used to power on the console, a limitation seemingly common to third-party PS5 controllers.

Steam Deck Performance: The controller functions flawlessly on the Steam Deck, correctly identified as a PS5 controller, with full share button and touchpad functionality.

Battery Life: A major advantage over the DualSense and DualSense Edge is the significantly longer battery life, further enhanced by a low-battery indicator on the touchpad.

Software and iOS Compatibility: The reviewer couldn't test the software (available only on the Microsoft Store), but notes the controller's out-of-the-box functionality on other platforms. Importantly, it does not work on iOS devices.

Negatives: The significant drawbacks include the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of Hall Effect sensors in the standard model (requiring a separate purchase), and the need for a dongle for wireless use. The reviewer expresses disappointment that Hall Effect sensors aren't included standard.

Final Verdict: After extensive use, the reviewer enjoys the controller but notes several frustrating shortcomings given its price. The lack of rumble (potentially a Sony limitation), the dongle requirement, the extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and the low polling rate are significant drawbacks. While very good, it falls short of "amazing" due to these issues. The overall score is 4/5.