PlayerProX Review — 2025 Upgraded Retro Gaming Console Stick
Price: $49.99 · Rating: 4.2 (171 ratings)
Short Take
If you love perfectly timed jumps, fast co-op runs, and the thrill of finally beating a tough boss, this stick is a budget-friendly nostalgia machine. It won’t replace pro-level gear. However, for home play, couch sessions, and long retro runs, it performs far better than expected for the price.
Overview & What’s in the Box
Version 1.0.0
- The console includes 23 built-in emulators and comes pre-loaded with 20,000+ games on a 64GB TF card. It is plug-and-play, so you don’t need the internet.
- The stick uses an HDMI form factor with an extended HDMI cable. While the seller advertises 4K, gameplay actually runs in 1080p HD.
- It ships with two upgraded 2.4GHz wireless controllers with about a 40 ft range. Each requires 4 AAA batteries (not included).
- Save-state support is available. You can also return to the menu quickly by pressing SELECT + START.
Key Specs
- 23 simulators / 20,000+ games pre-loaded
- 64GB TF card included
- HDMI output (1080p gameplay; listed as 4K compatible for displays)
- Dual 2.4GHz wireless controllers, ~40 ft max range
- Plug & play — no downloads or network required
Multiplayer & Controller Notes
Version 1.0.0
- Two-player mode is where this stick shines. Co-op classics such as side-scrolling shooters and beat ’em ups instantly turn into party favorites. Setup is also simple: just plug it in, insert the card, and power it on.
- The controllers feel responsive enough for casual sessions. Many players praise both the joystick and button feedback. That said, competitive fighters will still prefer wired arcade sticks for frame-perfect inputs.
- One downside is the power requirement. Since each controller needs AAA batteries, remember to stock up.
In-Game Tips from PlayerProX
- Platformers: use the save-state frequently when learning a pixel-perfect section — load after a tricky jump to practice timing without replaying the whole stage.
- Run-and-gun co-op: assign roles. One player handles crowd control, the other focuses on bosses and power-up collection to minimize friendly-fire mistakes.
- Fighting games: if you want stricter input fidelity, reduce on-screen filters, and set TV to “game mode” to cut display lag. Wireless 2.4GHz is good, but test your preferred fighter for input feel before a high-stakes session.
- Shoot ’em ups: memorize bullet rhythms and use save-states to practice boss phases. Pausing and saving between loops lets you grind leaderboards without restarting all the way from level 1.
- Quick menu: press SELECT + START to return to the main menu — perfect for swapping games mid-party or exiting a stubborn ROM.
Player Voices
- “Value — everyone plays together.” Players love the quick setup and family-friendly sessions.
- “Portable global game collection.” Reviewers praise its light weight and easy travel use, especially the strong wireless range.
- “Retro gaming bliss.” Users highlight the huge variety of titles and smooth, nostalgia-rich play.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Massive library out of the box, very affordable, solid two-player experience, save states, wide device compatibility via HDMI.
- Cons: Marketing claims around “4K” vs. actual 1080p gameplay are confusing; wireless is great for casual play but not for high-level competitive matches; controllers require AAA batteries (not included).
Final Verdict
All in all, for $49.99, this stick is an excellent choice for casual retro fans. It works well for family nights, nostalgic runs, or grinding tough bosses with save states. On the other hand, serious fighting game competitors will still want a wired stick. Even so, as a living-room retro hub, this console offers a lot of fun for very little money.
