Victrix Evokes Fierce Gaming with Tekken 8 Controller

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 against other "Pro" controllers like the Xbox Elite and DualSense Edge.

Unboxing and Contents: The 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 blue wireless USB dongle. The included items are Tekken 8 themed, which is both a positive and negative (lack of readily available replacements).

Compatibility: The controller seamlessly works with PS5, PS4, and PC (including Steam Deck via the dongle). Wireless functionality on consoles requires the dongle. The reviewer notes its compatibility with PS4 as a significant advantage.

Features and Customization: The modular design allows for symmetric/asymmetric stick layouts, swappable fightpads, adjustable triggers, and interchangeable thumbsticks and d-pads. This adaptability is praised for its game-specific customization. However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro support is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of budget controllers with rumble. The four paddle buttons are functional but lack the removable design of some competitors.

Design and Feel: The controller's aesthetic is visually appealing, with vibrant colors and Tekken 8 branding. While comfortable, it's considered slightly too light. The grip is excellent, enabling extended play sessions. The material quality is good but not as premium as the DualSense Edge.

PS5 Performance: The controller functions well on PS5, supporting the touchpad and standard DualSense buttons. However, it cannot power on the console, a limitation seemingly common to third-party PS5 controllers. The absence of haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro is reiterated.

Steam Deck Performance: The controller works flawlessly on Steam Deck with the dongle, correctly identifying as a PS5 controller and supporting the share button and touchpad.

Battery Life: A major strength is the superior battery life compared to the DualSense and DualSense Edge. The low battery indicator on the touchpad is also highlighted as a useful feature.

Software and iOS Compatibility: The reviewer couldn't test the software due to their Windows setup. Importantly, the controller is incompatible with iOS devices.

Negatives: The lack of rumble, low polling rate, absence of Hall Effect sensors (requiring an additional purchase), and the dongle requirement for wireless are significant drawbacks. The reviewer questions the omission of Hall Effect sensors in the initial purchase. The aesthetic incompatibility of the separately sold modules is also mentioned.

Overall: Despite extensive use and positive aspects like modularity and battery life, the controller's shortcomings (particularly the lack of rumble and high price) prevent it from achieving a perfect score. The reviewer suggests that addressing these issues could elevate it to a top-tier controller.

Final Score: 4/5