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

For my latest TouchArcade controller review, I've spent over a month using the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition on PC and PlayStation—across my Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4 Pro. Intrigued by its modular design and seeking a new "Pro" controller after enjoying the Xbox Elite (1st gen) and DualSense Edge, I delved into this comprehensive review.

Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition: Unboxing

Unlike standard controllers, which usually include just a cable and maybe a charging stand, the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition boasts a generous package. Inside a high-quality protective case, you'll find the controller, a braided cable, a replacement six-button fightpad module, two gates, two analog stick caps, two d-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a blue wireless USB dongle. Everything is neatly organized. Note that unlike the standard Victrix Pro BFG, this edition's included items feature the Tekken 8 Rage Art aesthetic—replacement parts aren't currently sold separately, but hopefully, that will change.

Compatibility

Officially supporting PS5, PS4, and PC, I tested its Steam Deck compatibility. Preferring PlayStation button prompts, I set it to PS5 mode, plugged the dongle into my Steam Deck Docking Station, and it worked flawlessly without updates. Wireless play on consoles requires the dongle and selecting the appropriate PS4 or PS5 mode. I experienced no issues on my PS4 Pro (in PS4 mode) or PS5 (in PS5 mode). This is a significant advantage, as I lack PS4 controllers beyond arcade sticks with PS4 support.

Features

The Victrix Pro BFG's modularity is its standout feature. You can switch between symmetric and asymmetric stick layouts, utilize the fightpad for fighting games, and adjust triggers, thumbsticks, and d-pads. This adaptability allows customization for different game genres. For example, I used the symmetric layout for Katamari Damacy Reroll and the asymmetric layout for DOOM Eternal. Adjustable trigger stops are also excellent, allowing customization for racing games with analog trigger support and shorter stops for games with digital triggers. The multiple d-pad options are a welcome addition, although I preferred the default diamond shape. However, I wouldn't recommend it for platformers; the other d-pad options are better suited for that.

As an officially licensed PS5/PS4 controller, it lacks rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control. While I don't heavily rely on gyro, the absence of rumble is disappointing, especially considering sub-$30 controllers now offer decent rumble (though not always PS5 compatible). I understand that third-party wireless PS5 controllers may have rumble restrictions. Regardless, it's a drawback.

The controller includes four paddle-like buttons (I wish they were removable paddles). I mapped two to L3/R3 and the others to L1/R1 for games like Monster Hunter World, avoiding the need to press the sticks. Four buttons are very useful.

Look and Feel

Visually, the Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition's bright colors and highlights are stunning. While not as sleek as the standard black model, its light blue, pink, purple, and Tekken 8 branding make it visually appealing. The controller is comfortable but feels slightly light. The material quality ranges from premium to simply decent—not quite as premium as the DualSense Edge, but the latter's glossy front plate detracts from its feel. The grip is excellent, allowing for extended 8-hour wired sessions without fatigue.

PS5 Performance

On PS5, keep in mind that while officially licensed, you can't power on the console with it (a seeming limitation for third-party PS5 controllers). Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro are unavailable. However, it supports the touchpad and all DualSense buttons, including the share button.

Steam Deck Performance

As mentioned, the controller works seamlessly on the Steam Deck with the dongle connected to the official docking station. It's correctly recognized as a PS5 Victrix controller, with the share button and touchpad functioning as expected in PC games with PlayStation controller support—a welcome improvement over the inconsistent DualSense recognition in some games.

Battery Life

A major advantage over the DualSense and DualSense Edge is the significantly longer battery life. The touchpad logo also conveniently indicates low battery. This is particularly useful on the Steam Deck, where other controllers lack clear low-battery indicators.

Software

I couldn't test the software, as it's only available on the Microsoft Store. However, the controller works flawlessly out-of-the-box on Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4. I attempted iOS compatibility (wireless with the dongle on iPad, wired on iPhone 15 Pro and iPad Pro) without success.

Negatives

Several significant drawbacks exist: no rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of included Hall Effect sensors, and the dongle requirement for wireless functionality (on my model). The rumble issue might not bother everyone, but for a "Pro" controller, the polling rate is disappointing (as evidenced by numerous YouTube videos). The DualSense Edge wired controller offers a significantly better response in this area.

The absence of Hall Effect sensors is also concerning. While Victrix now sells these modules separately, why aren't they included in new controller purchases? Furthermore, purchasing differently colored modules would clash aesthetically and lack PS5 face buttons.

Final Verdict

After over 100 hours of use across multiple platforms and games (UFO 50, Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, Persona 3 Reload, etc.), I enjoy using this controller. However, several issues are frustrating given its price. The Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition has the potential to be one of the best controllers, but it needs fixes for a potential successor. The lack of rumble (possibly a Sony restriction), dongle requirement, extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and the polling rate are significant drawbacks at its price point. These might not matter to everyone, but for a $200 "Pro" controller, more is expected.

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

Update: Added more information regarding the lack of rumble.