BGFTekken8: Victrix Pro Controller Customization Woes

This comprehensive 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 explores its modular design, compatibility, features, and overall performance.

Unboxing the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition

Unlike standard controllers, this 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 included items, themed to match the Tekken 8 aesthetic, are neatly organized within the protective case. The reviewer hopes replacement parts will be sold separately.

Compatibility Across Platforms

The controller seamlessly works on PS5, PS4, and PC, including out-of-the-box compatibility with Steam Deck via the included dongle. Wireless functionality on consoles requires the dongle and selecting the appropriate console mode (PS4 or PS5). Its PS4 compatibility is a notable advantage for cross-generation testing.

Modular Design and Features

The modular design is a highlight, allowing for customizable layouts (symmetrical, asymmetrical, and fightpad), adjustable triggers, and interchangeable thumbsticks and d-pads. The reviewer appreciates the adaptability for various game genres. However, the absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion controls is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of budget controllers with rumble. The four paddle-like buttons are useful, but the reviewer wishes for removable, more traditional paddles.

Design and Feel

The vibrant color scheme and Tekken 8 branding enhance the controller's visual appeal. While comfortable, it feels slightly lightweight. The build quality is described as a mix of premium and adequate, falling short of the DualSense Edge but offering superior grip, enabling extended play sessions.

PS5 Performance

While officially licensed, the controller can't power on the PS5, a limitation seemingly common among third-party PS5 controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro are unavailable. Touchpad and share button functionality are present.

Steam Deck Performance

The controller works flawlessly with the Steam Deck, correctly identified as a PS5 Victrix controller, with full share button and touchpad functionality. This is particularly impressive, as the reviewer's DualSense had compatibility issues with some games.

Battery Life

The controller boasts significantly longer battery life compared to the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a major plus, especially for Steam Deck use. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is a welcome feature.

Software and iOS Compatibility

The included software is Windows-only, but the controller functions without it on other platforms. Unfortunately, iOS compatibility is lacking.

Shortcomings

The controller's drawbacks include the lack of rumble, a low polling rate, the absence of Hall Effect sensors (sold separately), and the dongle requirement for wireless use. These issues, coupled with the high price, prevent it from achieving "amazing" status. The reviewer questions why Hall Effect sensors aren't included, especially given their availability as an add-on.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, the controller is enjoyable to use, accumulating over 100 hours of playtime across various games. The reviewer believes it has the potential to be exceptional with improvements in future iterations. The lack of rumble, the dongle requirement, the extra cost for Hall Effect sensors, and the low polling rate are significant drawbacks at its current price point.

Overall Score: 4/5