Victrix Pro Enhanced: Customization & Comfort for Tekken Dominance

This extensive review covers a month's experience with 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, comparing it to other premium controllers like the Xbox Elite and DualSense Edge.

Unboxing the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition

The package includes the controller, a braided cable, a 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, particularly in this themed edition, are well-organized and of high quality. The reviewer expresses hope for future availability of replacement parts.

Compatibility and Connectivity

The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC, including out-of-the-box functionality on the Steam Deck using the included dongle. Wireless operation on consoles requires the dongle and selecting the appropriate console mode (PS4 or PS5). The reviewer highlights its usefulness for cross-console comparisons, especially given the lack of other PS4 controllers compatible with other platforms.

Features and Customization

The modular design is a key selling point, allowing for adjustments to stick layout (symmetric or asymmetric), the inclusion of a fightpad, trigger stops, thumbsticks, and D-pads. The reviewer appreciates the adaptability for different game genres. However, the absence of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro control is noted as a significant drawback, particularly considering the price point and the availability of budget controllers with rumble. The four paddles, while useful, are not removable, a point of minor criticism.

Design and Ergonomics

The controller's aesthetic is praised for its vibrant colors and Tekken 8 branding, although it's considered less elegant than the standard black model. While comfortable, its lightweight design is both a positive (reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions) and a negative (feeling less substantial than some competitors). The grip is particularly highlighted as excellent.

PS5 Performance

The reviewer notes that, 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 is reiterated. Touchpad functionality and other standard DualSense buttons are fully supported.

Steam Deck Performance

The controller's plug-and-play compatibility with the Steam Deck is a major plus, with proper recognition and functionality of the share button and touchpad.

Battery Life

The controller's impressive battery life is a clear advantage over the DualSense and DualSense Edge, lasting significantly longer on a single charge. The low-battery indicator on the touchpad is also appreciated.

Software and iOS Compatibility

The reviewer couldn't test the controller's software due to not using Windows. However, the out-of-the-box functionality on other platforms is highlighted. The controller's lack of iOS compatibility is disappointing.

Shortcomings

The review concludes by listing key drawbacks: the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of Hall Effect sensors in the standard configuration (requiring an additional purchase), and the necessity of a dongle for wireless use. The reviewer emphasizes that while the controller is excellent, these issues, particularly at its price point, prevent it from achieving "amazing" status.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, the reviewer's extensive use across multiple platforms and games leads to a positive overall assessment. The Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition is deemed "very good," but not perfect, due to the aforementioned issues. The final score is 4/5.