What Games Are on Game Stick? Complete 4K Game List Guide

If you’ve ever wanted to turn your living room into a retro arcade without buying a bulky console, the Game Stick is exactly that tiny dream come true. It’s a simple plug-and-play HDMI stick that carries hundreds sometimes thousands of preloaded games right out of the box.

But if you’re wondering what games are actually on Game Stick or whether it can run heavy titles like GTA, this guide breaks everything down from built-in classics to secret 4K gems, setup steps, and even how to load your own games safely.

The Hype Around Game Stick Consoles

The Game Stick isn’t new, but it’s having a serious comeback. Thanks to TikTok videos and YouTube shorts showing people scrolling through 10,000-plus retro games, curiosity has exploded.

Here’s why:

• It’s cheap compared to consoles like PlayStation or Xbox.
• It plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port.
• It includes wireless controllers (no messy wires).
• It offers nostalgia the kind that makes you remember lazy afternoons with Mario, Contra, and Sonic.

Different versions exist Game Stick Pro, Game Stick Lite, Game Stick 4K, and even Game Stick X2 each with slightly different specs, storage, and preinstalled titles.

Still, they all share one goal: simple, instant fun. No downloads, no accounts, no updates. Just pure gaming.

What Games Are on Game Stick

Now the part that really matters: the games.

Most Game Stick models claim anywhere from 10,000 to 25,000 built-in games, depending on the version. But don’t expect 25,000 unique games. Many are regional or version repeats, but there’s still a goldmine of playable classics.

Here’s a quick look at what’s usually inside:

Some editions even sneak in newer 3D-era games like GTA 2, Need for Speed III, or Mortal Kombat 4, although performance varies.

The charm of Game Stick is its plug-and-play simplicity. Whether you want pixelated arcade chaos or your childhood favourites, it’s all there waiting.

Game Stick Pro vs Game Stick Lite

People often ask if the Pro version is worth it over the Lite or standard model. Let’s compare them side by side.

Bottom line:
If you’re casual and want cheap retro fun, the Lite model works fine. But if you’re serious about smoother performance, quicker menus, and 4K output, go with the Game Stick Pro 4K. It’s more stable and compatible with modern TVs.

The Top 10 Games Worth Playing

You’ll never have time to explore all 20,000 titles, so here’s a curated list of ten must-play picks that bring the best nostalgia and replay value.

4002. Contra (NES) – Still brutally hard and still addictive.
4003. Metal Slug 3 (Neo Geo) – Iconic run-and-gun chaos with crisp animation.
4004. Street Fighter II Turbo (Arcade) – Because no retro setup is complete without it.
4005. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (SEGA) – The blue blur never gets old.
4006. Super Mario Bros 3 (NES) – Arguably the greatest platformer ever.
4007. Tekken 3 (PS1) – Smooth fighting mechanics and nostalgia overload.
4008. Crash Bandicoot (PS1) – 3D platforming perfection for retro fans.
4009. Double Dragon II (Arcade) – Old-school co-op brawling fun.
4010. Mortal Kombat 4 (PS1) – Polygonal but still satisfying fatalities.
4011. Pac-Man (Arcade) – Simple, universal, timeless.

If you’re hosting a retro game night, this list alone can keep everyone entertained for hours.

Can You Add or Download More Games?

Yes, absolutely. That’s one of the biggest advantages.

Most modern Game Sticks come with a microSD or USB port that lets you load ROMs manually. You’ll need a little patience and some file management, but it’s doable.

Here’s how:

5126. Download compatible ROMs (legally avoid pirated copies).
5127. Insert your SD card or USB into your PC.
5128. Copy the ROM files into the respective folder (e.g., /games/nes or /games/ps1).
5129. Plug the storage device back into the Game Stick.
5130. Restart it and check the emulator menu.

The stick should automatically recognise the new games.

A few tips:

• Stick to verified ROMs to avoid crashes.
• Don’t overload the drive; performance drops if the card’s full.
• Always back up the files before deleting or updating.

Does Game Stick Have GTA or Flight Games?

This is where things get interesting.

Some sellers advertise that the Game Stick 4K supports GTA, but what they actually mean is older versions like GTA 1 or GTA 2, sometimes GTA Advance from Game Boy Advance. These run fine.

However, don’t expect GTA San Andreas or GTA V. The stick doesn’t have the hardware to handle those.

As for flight stick games, yes, a few titles support it Ace Combat 2, After Burner II, and 1942 work decently with USB controllers designed for flight or joystick play.

Still, the Game Stick’s strength is in retro emulation, not realistic simulation. Think fun, not flight school.

Game Stick Controls and Settings

If your controllers feel laggy or the buttons don’t match, you can fix it through the settings menu.

Go to:
Settings → Controller → Key Mapping

Here you can manually assign buttons for any game system. Some emulators also allow per-game mapping, so you can set up different layouts for racing, fighting, or puzzle titles.

To reduce input lag:

• Keep the console close to the TV receiver.
• Avoid Bluetooth interference from other devices.
• Check batteries on wireless controllers.

These small tweaks often make a big difference.

How to Set Up Game Stick 4K on TV

Setting it up is as simple as it looks, but let’s go step by step for a clean experience.

7127. Plug the HDMI stick directly into your TV’s HDMI port.
7128. Connect the USB power cable (usually through the TV’s USB port or adapter).
7129. Turn on your TV and select the correct HDMI input.
7130. Pair the controllers usually by pressing Home + Start until the LED flashes.
7131. The main menu should load automatically with colourful game icons.

From here, you can scroll through categories, favourites, and emulator types.

If the screen looks off, go to Display Settings → Resolution and choose your TV’s highest supported option (1080p or 4K).

Common Problems and Quick Fixes

Even though it’s mostly plug-and-play, a few issues pop up now and then. Luckily, they’re easy to solve.

If everything fails, look for a “Factory Reset” option in the settings it’ll reinstall the default game package.

How to Play Multiplayer Games

One of Game Stick’s underrated strengths is multiplayer gaming.

Most systems support two wireless controllers, and classics like Tekken 3, Double Dragon, Super Mario Kart, and Bomberman are more fun with friends.

To activate multiplayer:

8844. Turn on both controllers before opening the game.
8845. Assign Player 1 and Player 2 in the settings.
8846. Launch any supported game and press Start on both controllers.

And just like that your living room becomes a mini arcade.

Expanding Storage and Updating Firmware

If you’re into customising, there’s a whole rabbit hole of updates, mods, and extra content.

Firmware updates: Some Game Stick Pro models allow firmware flashing via USB. It improves performance and sometimes adds new emulator types. Only download from the official vendor’s page to avoid bricking your stick.

Extra storage: You can attach external storage up to 128GB for more games, screenshots, or save states. The OS automatically detects it once plugged in.

Pro tip: Back up your game saves occasionally it’s annoying losing your Mario progress halfway through World 8.

Can You Connect to Wi-Fi?

Not all versions support Wi-Fi, but newer Game Stick Pro 4K editions do. You can use it to:

• Access online leaderboards (for select games).
• Download official ROM packs.
• Stream gameplay to YouTube via third-party apps (advanced users only).

Just open the settings, head to Network → Wi-Fi, and connect as usual.

Performance and Picture Quality

Despite its small size, Game Stick 4K outputs decent picture quality. The upscaling sharpens old 8-bit graphics beautifully on modern TVs.

Of course, don’t expect console-level performance frame drops happen occasionally, especially in PS1 emulation. But for casual players, it’s surprisingly smooth.

Audio emulation is clear, and most games load instantly once cached. Some even support save states, so you can pause and continue anytime a luxury we never had on the original consoles.

Who Is Game Stick For?

If you:

• Grew up in the 80s, 90s, or early 2000s
• Want a quick, low-effort way to play
• Have kids and want to show them retro classics
• Don’t want to mess with expensive emulators

Then yes, it’s for you.

Game Stick is also great for travellers it fits in your pocket and works on any HDMI TV or projector. It’s gaming on the go, simplified.

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Game Stick

11107. Use a good power adapter. Weak adapters cause random reboots.
11108. Label your favourites. With thousands of games, navigation gets messy fast.
11109. Switch to wired mode if you feel lag in fighting games.
11110. Explore emulator settings. You can tweak resolution, shaders, and filters.
11111. Keep ventilation clear. It’s small, but heat still builds up after hours of play.

The Best 4K Game Stick Models in 2025

As of 2025, these versions dominate the market for their performance and reliability:

Each can handle thousands of retro games across 10–15 emulation platforms.

If you care about visuals and smoother menus, aim for Pro 4K or X2. If you just want quick fun without setup headaches, Lite 4K does the job.

Is Game Stick Legal?

A common question. The stick itself is legal it’s simply hardware.
The grey area lies in the ROMs (the games themselves). Some are copyrighted, some are abandonware, and others are open-source.

If you own the original cartridge or disc, you can legally keep a backup copy. Otherwise, it’s safer to use freely distributed games or homebrew content.

Several communities now release new retro-style games specifically for these sticks fun, legal, and surprisingly creative.

Verdict: Is Game Stick Worth It in 2025?

Honestly, yes if you know what you’re getting.

It’s not a PlayStation 5 or a gaming PC. But it’s cheap, fun, and instant. It delivers nostalgia without the clutter or cost.

You’ll relive pixel memories, teach your kids about gaming history, and maybe even rediscover the patience that old games demanded.

For under £40, the Game Stick offers more laughs per pound than almost any other gadget you’ll buy this year.