The Ultimate Gamepad: Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox Sets New Standards in Versatility and Performance

Where do I begin with the Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox? In my time as hardware editor here at GamesRadar+, I haven’t struggled with a review score quite as much as the four and a half stars I awarded to this controller's PS5 model. It is, unquestionably, my favorite gamepad I’ve reviewed, and I genuinely believe it deserves a place among the best of all time. However, it narrowly missed out on a perfect score, losing half a star because its minimalist approach toward E-Sports excellence felt slightly excessive. Now, I face the challenge once again with the Xbox counterpart, which presents an opportunity for reassessment.

Design

The Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox stands out with its unique modular design, aiming to cater to a variety of gaming preferences. You can unscrew, flip, swap, and switch components on its face according to your needs. The Xbox iteration introduces Hall Sensor thumbstick modules, though these are not included in the box, indicating PDP's awareness of market trends and their attempt to stay competitive. The package includes various thumbstick tops and a small screwdriver for module attachments, providing significant value for money.

The Xbox version replaces the PlayStation touchpad with an Xbox button, in-game menu button, and a sharing button, retaining all swappable accessories and the fight stick module. Additionally, the controller features frontal rubberized grip pads with a stylish purple trim and an RGB ring around the Xbox button. Notably, the Xbox version feels slightly heavier than its PS5 counterpart, likely due to the inclusion of rumble motors, which enhances its substantiality—a valuable attribute for a gamepad often criticized for being too light.

Features

The Victrix Pro BFG is notable for being the second third-party pro gamepad licensed for the Xbox Series X that supports wireless features, following Turtle Beach's licensing victory. This Xbox version appears to have longer battery life compared to the PS5 model, lasting around 15 hours in rigorous testing, although the marketing claims suggest up to 20 hours.

The package includes a 3m braided USB to USB-C cable and a 3.5mm headphone jack, besides a wireless USB dongle. Absent is the toggle switch present in the PS5 model at the top, rather it features wired or wireless mode buttons on the back, alongside trigger stop switches and four programmable back buttons. These buttons can be customized using the Victrix button on the controller or its companion software.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Users engaging in extended gaming sessions will appreciate the battery life improvements over the PS5 model. The seamless transition between wired and wireless modes offers flexibility accentuated by the user-friendly placement of buttons on the back of the device. Enhanced connectivity features ensure that whether you are playing on a console or PC, the Victrix Pro BFG meets your needs with minimal interruption.

Performance

Evaluating a gamepad’s performance requires a nuanced approach since it involves assessing its ability to enhance gaming experiences rather than being the main focus. The Victrix Pro BFG excels by offering unparalleled modularity, enabling seamless transitions across game genres via simple thumbstick changes. This adaptability is where it significantly outcompetes models like the Thrustmaster eSwap XR Pro, whose modular builds lack similar flexibility. In single-player games, the enhanced vibration motors of the Xbox version truly shine. For instance, in Alan Wake 2, the added vibration provided immersive feedback, enhancing the overall gaming experience without compromising the speed and precision expected from an E-Sports controller.

Similarly, during platform gaming tests with titles like Celeste, the responsiveness of the D-pad and the accuracy of the back buttons delivered an unmatched level of control and precision. The combination of responsive face buttons and programmable back buttons positions the Victrix Pro BFG as an exceptional choice for first-person shooters. It even stands its ground against the renowned magnetic back paddles of the Elite Series 2, delivering a comparable, if not superior, gaming experience in titles like Helldivers 2.

Modularity and User Experience

The controller’s modularity allows for tailored gaming experiences, making it particularly effective for adapting to different genres and play styles. The precise D-pad and responsive face buttons contribute to a cohesive gaming experience, emphasizing the controller’s capacity to deliver accuracy and comfort across various gaming scenarios.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox?

In reflection, the Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox epitomizes adaptability and precision, earning a place among the best gamepads ever created. While the added cost of Hall Sensor thumbstick modules may seem a downside, the controller’s overall improvements, such as its weighted feel due to vibration motors and potentially longer battery life, offer substantial trade-offs. The Victrix Pro BFG stands as a versatile tool that sets new standards for future gamepads. Despite its near perfection, the five-star rating reflects its role as a yardstick for future competitors rather than an absolute paragon of flawlessness.

Testing Methodology

My assessment of the Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox involved testing it across various platforms and genres, including titles like Alan Wake 2, Helldiver 2, Hunt Showdown, Celeste, and Blasphemous 2. The evaluation included tracking battery life and comparing the performance against other gamepads, such as its PS5 counterpart, the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra, and the Elite Series 2 controller. For more insights into our testing processes for gaming accessories, refer to the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Final Thoughts

The quest for the perfect controller may be subjective, varying across different gaming genres and personal preferences. However, the Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox undoubtedly comes close, marking a significant milestone in gamepad development with its innovative design, versatile performance, and exceptional features.