This comprehensive review delves into the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller, exploring its features, compatibility, and overall performance across PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and even the Steam Deck. The author's month-long testing provides a detailed perspective on this modular controller.
Unboxing the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition
Unlike standard controllers, the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition arrives in a high-quality protective case, containing the controller, a braided cable, a replacement six-button fightpad module, two gate options, 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 a notable inclusion.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
The controller seamlessly works on PS5, PS4, and PC, exceeding expectations by functioning flawlessly on the Steam Deck without requiring updates. Wireless functionality on PlayStation consoles necessitates the provided dongle. The author highlights its usefulness for comparing PS4 and PS5 game performance.
Modular Design and Features
The controller's modularity is a key selling point, allowing for customization of stick layout (symmetric or asymmetric), the inclusion of a fightpad for fighting games, and adjustable triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads. This adaptability makes it suitable for various game genres. The reviewer praises the multiple D-pad options but expresses a preference for the default diamond shape.
The absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of more affordable controllers with rumble. This lack of features, potentially due to PS5 third-party controller limitations, is a disappointment.
The controller includes four paddle-like buttons, mappable to enhance gameplay, although the reviewer wishes for removable, more traditional paddles.
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The controller's vibrant color scheme and Tekken 8 branding are visually appealing, although subjective. The reviewer finds it comfortable despite being lighter than expected. The grip is excellent, allowing for extended play sessions without fatigue.
PS5 Performance
While officially licensed, the controller cannot power on the PS5, a limitation seemingly common to third-party controllers. The lack of haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support remains a concern. However, touchpad and share button functionality are present.
Steam Deck Experience
The controller’s out-of-the-box compatibility with the Steam Deck is a major plus, with correct controller recognition and functionality of the share button and touchpad.
Battery Life
The controller boasts significantly longer battery life than the DualSense and DualSense Edge, a considerable advantage. A low-battery indicator on the touchpad is also a welcome feature.
Software and iOS Compatibility
The controller's software is only available on the Microsoft Store, preventing the reviewer from testing it. Unfortunately, iOS compatibility is absent.
Shortcomings
The controller's main drawbacks are the lack of rumble, a low polling rate, the absence of Hall Effect sensors (though now sold separately), and the dongle requirement for wireless use. The reviewer questions the omission of Hall Effect sensors in the initial purchase. The lack of matching color options for the add-on modules is also noted.
Final Verdict
Despite extensive use and overall positive impressions, the controller's shortcomings, particularly the lack of rumble and the low polling rate, detract from its value at the $200 price point. The potential is immense, but several key issues need addressing in a future iteration. The review concludes with a score of 4/5.
Update: Clarified information regarding the absence of rumble.
