We all know it seems like dark days ahead for console gamers, what with the end of physical media and ever-increasing hardware prices. But something that I think has gone unreported is that peripherals for PS5 and Xbox Series X tend to be more expensive than PC equivalents. Case in point, the best PC controller in my opinion is the Victrix Pro BFG, and while it has bespoke versions for PS5, Xbox, and PC, the latter doesn't need to make up for expensive licensing costs.
As such, it's seeing a $50 discount right now while the console editions stay at their regular price. Over in Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale, you can get the BFG Reloaded for $139.99 when it usually costs you $189.99.
Now, to be fair, the Xbox and PS5 versions of the Victrix Pro BFG will work on their respective consoles, as well as on a PC. I'm not sure the same can be said of the PC model, as without official licensing for either machine and potentially incorrect connectivity protocols, you'll be locked to just PC gaming with it. That might be absolutely fine for a large swathe of you, but it does call into question the value for money if you do own more than one platform.
Regardless, the lack of that official licensing is likely why we're seeing it discounted when the other two are at full price. I review all sorts of PS5 controllers, Xbox Series X controllers, and TMR controllers, and if there's a common trend, it's that the "pro" level ones for consoles tend to be pricier than a lot of the ones just designed for PC, even while they're all essentially offering the same features.
Regardless, the Victrix Pro BFG and Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox have been long-reigning monarchs at the top of our controller buying guides. Even as this pad begins to age, it still offers a lot of value for money thanks to its fully modular design that lets you flip it between a symmetrical and asymmetrical controller on a whim. It has four large back buttons that make them easy to implement into your gameplay, and a slew of attachments in its carrying case.
Interestingly, with this PC-only version, you miss out on the fight-pad module from the console editions. I'm not really sure why, since this is a big perk of the controller's offering that allows fighting game fans to have six face buttons like they would on an arcade fightstick.
However, if you've been looking at the Steam Controller for its fancy mouse-emulating trackpads, the PC version might be a nice alternative, since its touchpad is said to emulate a mouse too. I haven't gone hands-on with this version of the controller, nor tested this particular feature, so I can't speak to how well that works, but it could be a really great way to navigate your PC from the couch if it works.
You can also look at what Switch 2 controllers I'd recommend, or find your perfect PC racing wheel.
