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

For TouchArcade's latest controller review, I've extensively used the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller across PC and PlayStation platforms—Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4 Pro—for over a month. Intrigued by its modular design and seeking a premium alternative to my beloved Xbox Elite (Gen 1) and DualSense Edge, I dove in.

Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition: Unboxing

Beyond the usual controller, cable, and occasional charging stand, the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition boasts a comprehensive package. Inside a high-quality protective case, you'll find: the controller itself; 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. Unlike the standard Victrix Pro BFG, this edition features Tekken 8 Rage Art-themed components. Replacement parts aren't currently widely available, hopefully, that changes soon.

Compatibility

Officially supporting PS5, PS4, and PC, I tested its Steam Deck compatibility. Setting it to PS5 mode and connecting the dongle to my Steam Deck Docking Station, it worked flawlessly without updates. Wireless use on consoles requires the dongle, switching between PS4 and PS5 modes as needed. It performed flawlessly on both my PS4 Pro and PS5. This is a significant advantage, as I lack PS4 controllers beyond arcade sticks.

Features

The Victrix Pro BFG's modularity is its star feature. Swap between symmetric and asymmetric stick layouts, utilize the fightpad for fighting games, and customize triggers, thumbsticks, and d-pads. This adaptability shines; I used the symmetric layout for Katamari Damacy Reroll and switched to the asymmetric layout for DOOM Eternal. Adjustable trigger stops are also excellent, allowing for fine-tuning across various game genres. The multiple d-pad options are welcome, though I preferred the default diamond shape. The controller 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 budget controllers now offer this feature. Note that this appears to be a limitation for third-party PS5 wireless controllers.

Four paddle-like buttons are included. 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 awkward stick presses.

Look and Feel

Visually stunning, the vibrant colors and highlights of the Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition are captivating, though perhaps less refined than the standard black model. The controller is comfortable but feels a bit lightweight. The build quality ranges from premium to simply adequate, falling short of the DualSense Edge's premium feel (though I dislike the Edge's glossy front plate). The excellent grip makes extended play sessions comfortable, and the light weight is a benefit.

PS5 Performance

While officially licensed, the controller can't power on the PS5—apparently a common limitation for third-party PS5 controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro are unavailable. However, touchpad support and all other DualSense buttons (including the Share button) function correctly.

Steam Deck Performance

The controller works seamlessly on the Steam Deck, correctly identified as a PS5 Victrix controller, with the Share button and touchpad functioning as expected. This is a significant advantage over my DualSense, which isn't always correctly recognized.

Battery Life

A major advantage over the DualSense and DualSense Edge is the significantly longer battery life. The low-battery indicator on the touchpad is also helpful, especially on the Steam Deck.

Software

I couldn't test the software, available only on the Microsoft Store. However, it functions perfectly on Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4. iOS compatibility testing failed (wireless with dongle on iPad, wired on iPhone 15 Pro and iPad Pro).

Negatives

The lack of rumble, low polling rate, absence of Hall Effect sensors (sold separately), and dongle requirement for wireless are significant drawbacks. The low polling rate is a substantial issue, negatively impacting responsiveness compared to the wired DualSense Edge. The lack of included Hall Effect sensors is frustrating, especially at this price point. Aesthetically, purchasing additional modules would clash with the existing design and lack PS5 face buttons.

Final Verdict

After over 100 hours of use across various platforms and games (UFO 50, Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, Persona 3 Reload, etc.), I genuinely enjoy this controller. However, several issues are concerning given the price. With some improvements, it could be one of the best controllers available. The lack of rumble (possibly a Sony limitation), dongle requirement, extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and low polling rate are significant drawbacks at this price point.

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

Update: Added more information regarding the lack of rumble.