If you’ve been on the hunt for the ultimate gaming controller over the past few years, the Victrix Pro BFG has likely been on your radar. Initially launched for PS5 users in January 2023, and later for Xbox, it quickly became a favorite among gamers. However, with Turtle Beach’s acquisition of PDP and the Victrix brand, the controller is now being relaunched as the Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded. The announcement has left many, including myself, questioning the necessity of this re-release.
The Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded was quietly unveiled over the weekend, and at first glance, it appears remarkably similar to its predecessor. The most noticeable change is the price. Previously priced at $179.99 / £179.99, the controller was a competitive option against the $200 alternatives for Xbox and PS5. However, Turtle Beach has now set the price at $209.99, raising eyebrows among potential buyers.
What’s New with the Reloaded Version?
Aside from some minor aesthetic updates, such as grey outlines on the grips of the black version, significant changes are hard to spot. The Reloaded version does come with Hall Effect thumbstick modules, an upgrade from the original’s potentiometers. However, this enhancement might not justify the price increase, especially since Hall Effect modules could already be purchased separately for the original controller.
The fightpad module, known for its six face buttons, has undergone a slight ergonomic redesign, but the changes are minimal. Notably absent from the Reloaded model are any improvements to address the slight latency issues reported by some users of the original BFG controllers.
Market Reaction and Consumer Advice
For US gamers, the new price tag means an additional $30 for what seems like marginal improvements. In contrast, UK buyers can still purchase the updated controller at the original price of £179.99. The Reloaded model consolidates the Hall Effect thumbsticks into one purchase, but for those who already own the original, buying separate modules might be a more cost-effective solution.
“The Reloaded version consolidates things into one easy purchase, but Hall Effect thumbsticks shouldn’t equate to an inflated price tag.”
For those considering a purchase, the decision may hinge on whether you value the convenience of having Hall Sensor thumbsticks pre-installed. If not, opting for the older models, while they remain available, could be a more economical choice.
Industry Context and Historical Comparisons
The rebranding and relaunching of products following corporate acquisitions is not uncommon in the tech industry. Turtle Beach’s move to re-release the Victrix Pro BFG under its name is a strategic decision to capitalize on the controller’s existing reputation. Historically, such re-releases often aim to integrate new technologies or design tweaks to refresh the product line.
However, the decision to increase the price without substantial upgrades could be seen as a misstep. In the competitive gaming peripherals market, price sensitivity is crucial, and consumers may not respond favorably to perceived value mismatches.
Expert Opinions and Future Implications
Gaming industry analysts suggest that Turtle Beach’s strategy might be to position the Reloaded BFG as a premium offering, aligning with its broader product lineup. This approach could attract new customers who prioritize brand consistency and are willing to pay a premium for it.
“If Turtle Beach really wanted to ‘reload’, I don’t see why it wouldn’t put TMR thumbsticks in the BFG, as this is the latest 2025 standard.”
Looking ahead, the success of the Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded will likely depend on consumer reception and whether the perceived value aligns with the price. The gaming community’s response will be a critical factor in determining whether this relaunch strategy pays off for Turtle Beach.
Conclusion: To Buy or Not to Buy?
As the Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded becomes available for pre-order, gamers face a choice. For those who prioritize cutting-edge technology and are willing to invest in the latest model, the Reloaded version offers a streamlined experience with pre-installed Hall Sensor thumbsticks. However, for budget-conscious consumers, the original models remain a viable option, at least while stocks last.
The new model is set to launch on September 28, and it remains to be seen whether any hidden improvements will emerge post-launch. Until then, gamers must weigh the benefits of the Reloaded version against its higher price tag.
