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{{short description|Discontinued home video game console}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{Copy edit|date=August 2014}}
{{update|date=August 2014}}
}}

{{Infobox information appliance
{{Infobox information appliance
| name = GameStick
| name = GameStick
| aka = Game Stick
| aka = Game Stick
| logo = [[File:GameStick Logo.png|250px]]
| logo = GameStick Logo.png
| image =
| image =<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:GameStick Controller.png|250px]] -->
| caption = <!-- include if image is not a logo -->
| caption = <!-- include if image is not a logo -->
| developer = PlayJam
| developer = PlayJam
| manufacturer =
| manufacturer =
| family = First Generation
| family = First Generation
| type = [[Microconsole]]
| type = [[Microconsole]]
| releasedate = November 15, 2013
| releasedate = {{Start date |2013|11|15}}
| lifespan =
| lifespan =
| price = $79 [[United States dollar|USD]]
| price = {{USD|79|2013}}
| discontinued =
| discontinued =
| unitssold =
| unitssold =
| unitsshipped =
| unitsshipped =
| media =
| media =
| os = [[Android (operating system)|Android]] [[Android version history|4.2 ''Jelly Bean'']]
| os = [[Android (operating system)|Android]] [[Android version history|4.1 Jelly Bean]]
| power =
| power =
| soc = Amlogic 8726-MX
| soc = Amlogic 8726-MX
| cpu = ARM Cortex A9
| cpu = ARM Cortex A9
| GPU = Mali-400 MP
| GPU = Mali-400 MP
| storage = 8&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] internal [[flash memory]]
| storage = 8&nbsp;[[Gigabyte|GB]] internal [[flash memory]]
| memory = 1&nbsp;GB DDR3 / 8&nbsp;GB FLASH
| memory = 1&nbsp;GB DDR3
| display = [[HDMI]]<br/><small>1080p, 720p</small>
| display = [[HDMI]]<br/><small>1080p, 720p</small>
| sound =
| sound =
| input = [[Bluetooth]]
| input = [[Bluetooth]]
| controllers = Wireless controller
| controllers = Wireless controller
| touchpad =
| touchpad =
| connectivity = *HDMI
| connectivity = *HDMI
* [[Wi-Fi|Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n]]
* [[Wi-Fi|Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n]]
* [[Bluetooth]] LE 4.0
* [[Bluetooth]] LE 4.0
| service = <!-- online service/s offered -->
| service = <!-- online service/s offered -->
| dimensions = Size of a flash drive
| dimensions = Size of a flash drive
| weight =
| weight =
| topgame =
| topgame =
| compatibility =
| compatibility =
| predecessor =
| predecessor =
| successor =
| successor = [[PlayJam OTT]]
| related =
| related =
| website = {{URL|http://www.gamestick.tv/}}
| website = {{URL|http://www.gamestick.tv/}}
}}
}}


The '''GameStick''' is a [[video game console]] developed by [[PlayJam]]. It is a [[microconsole]] the size of a [[USB flash drive]] that plugs directly into the back of a TV through an [[HDMI]] port, and ships with its own [[Bluetooth]] controller. Users of GameStick can access and download content through its curated store-front via [[Wi-Fi]], with content stored locally for offline access. The device is powered by the PlayJam Games Platform running its own version of the [[Android (operating system)|Android]] [[operating system]]. GameStick is intended to be a portable device aimed at casual to mid-core gamers for $79. Similar to the [[Ouya]], it was funded through [[Kickstarter]].
The '''GameStick''' is a discontinued [[home video game console]] developed by [[PlayJam]]. It is a [[microconsole]] the size of a [[USB flash drive]] that plugs directly into the back of a TV through an [[HDMI]] port and ships with its own [[Bluetooth]] controller. Users can download content from a curated storefront via [[Wi-Fi]], with content stored locally for offline access. The device is powered by the PlayJam Games Platform and runs its own version of the [[Android (operating system)|Android]] [[operating system]]. It is portable and aimed at casual to mid-core gamers. Like the [[Ouya]], it was funded through [[Kickstarter]].


Due to a change in production methods, the original release date of June 2013 was delayed,<ref>[http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever/posts/513573 GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created by GameStick » Project Update - 158 Days In. — Kickstarter]. Kickstarter.com. Retrieved on 2013-08-23.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-22064538 |title=BBC News – Gamestick console release date delayed |publisher=bbc.co.uk |date= |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref> and units did not ship to retailers until early November 2013.<ref>[https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever/posts/654513]</ref> It features an exclusive game and access to its app store for games and applications, of which the majority are [[casual game]]s targeted at or used by a mass audience of [[Gamer#Casual gamer|casual gamers]].
Because of a change in production methods, the original release date of June 2013 was delayed,<ref>[http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever/posts/513573 GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created by GameStick » Project Update - 158 Days In. — Kickstarter]. Kickstarter.com. Retrieved on 2013-08-23.</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-22064538 |title=BBC News – Gamestick console release date delayed |work=BBC News |date=8 April 2013 |access-date=2013-04-09}}</ref> and units did not ship to retailers until early November 2013.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever/posts/654513|title=Update 46: Update - Feedback. · GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created}}</ref> The GameStick features an exclusive game and access to its app store, which mainly sells [[casual game]]s. All systems can be used as development kits, allowing any GameStick owner to also be a developer, without licensing fees. The GameStick is part of the [[History of video game consoles (eighth generation)|eighth generation of video game consoles.]]


Jasper Smith ([[chief executive officer]] of PlayJam) and the PlayJam development team began recruiting support early in the process. Before the project's launch, GameStick, based out of [[San Francisco|San Francisco, California]], was said to have support from more than 1,000 developers.<ref name="joystiq1">{{cite web|last=Mallory |first=Jordan |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/gamestick-android-console-is-the-size-of-a-usb-stick/ |title=GameStick Android console is the size of a USB stick |publisher=Joystiq |date=2013-01-03 |access-date=2013-04-09}}</ref> Game designers interested in the project could pledge $500 in exchange for a prototype unit and development kit one month before launch. As of February 2013, the game was successfully funded with over 5,600 backers and about $650,000 raised.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever|title=GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created}}</ref>
All systems can be used as development kits, allowing any GameStick owner to also be a developer, without the need for licensing fees. The GameStick is classified as part of the [[History of video game consoles (eighth generation)|eighth generation of video game consoles.]]

Jasper Smith (CEO of PlayJam) and the PlayJam development team began recruiting support from developers early in the process. Before the project's launch, GameStick, based out of San Francisco, CA, was said to have support from "over 1000 developers".<ref name="joystiq1">{{cite web|last=Mallory |first=Jordan |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/gamestick-android-console-is-the-size-of-a-usb-stick/ |title=GameStick Android console is the size of a USB stick |publisher=Joystiq |date=2013-01-03 |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref> Game designers interested in the project could pledge $500 in exchange for a prototype unit and development kit one month before launch. As of February 2013, the game was successfully funded with over 5,600 backers and about $650,000 raised.<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever</ref> The GameStick Marketplace, an online store to purchase games, allows the use of parental control and password protection when purchasing. Although specific information regarding compatibility has not been released, PlayJam reports that at least 200 existing games on the Google Play Store will be compatible with GameStick.<ref name="gaducated1"/> However, the GameStick will not support the [[Google Play]] store directly, so game developers will need to port their games specifically to it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://voices.yahoo.com/gamestick-vs-ouya-which-sub-100-android-game-console-11960537.html |title=GameStick vs. Ouya: Which Sub-$100 Android Game Console are You Getting? – Yahoo! Voices |publisher=voices.yahoo.com |date=2013-01-07 |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=September 2015}} News about the GameStick has been featured on tech websites such as Engadget, SlashGear, and Tom's Hardware, as well as mainstream media outlets like NBC News.<ref name="joystiq1"/><ref>{{cite web|last=Gilbert |first=Ben |url=http://www.engadget.com/2013/01/29/gamestick-final-model/ |title=GameStick reveals final backer-aided design, dock for peripherals |publisher=Engadget.com |date=2013-01-29 |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Winda Benedetti |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/technology/ingame/thumb-drive-sized-gamestick-console-launching-april-1B7822275 |title=Thumb drive-sized GameStick console launching in April – InGame on |publisher=Nbcnews.com |date=2012-11-14 |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref>


==Design and specifications==
==Design and specifications==
⚫
The GameStick consists of the flash-drive-sized console and a wireless [[Bluetooth]] controller. The controller has two analog sticks, a directional pad, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, four system buttons for power and menus, and a slot in which the console can be stored. A GameStick dock is also available; it allows faster internet access with an Ethernet port, charging access for both the controller and the console, additional storage space, and the ability to connect to various peripherals such as USB keyboards, webcams, microphones, and dance mats.<ref>{{cite web
{{Update|date=August 2014}}
⚫
|url=http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever/posts/388488
|title=You spoke and we listened.|work=Kickstarter|publisher=GameStick}}</ref> The console contains an HDMI connector, an internal processor and memory, and wireless radios.<ref name="gaducated1">{{cite web |url=http://www.gaducated.com/android-game-consoles-ouya-vs-gamestick/ |title=Android Game Consoles: Ouya vs GameStick |publisher=gaducated.com |date=2013-02-02 |access-date=2013-04-09 |archive-date=2013-02-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220055940/http://www.gaducated.com/android-game-consoles-ouya-vs-gamestick/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>


Up to four controllers can be connected via Bluetooth 4.0, as can wireless keyboards and mice. The GameStick also supports [[iOS]] and Android devices as controllers. The system itself is Android-based but iOS compatible. The device supports 1080 HD playback as well as XBMC DLNA with an optional firmware upgrade. The GameStick uses an interface similar to the tiled dashboard on the [[Xbox 360]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/02/gamestick-takes-on-ouya-as-a-portable-android-game-console |title=GameStick Takes on Ouya as a Portable Android Games Console |publisher=IGN |date=2013-01-02 |access-date=2013-04-09}}</ref> The charger is a micro USB cable.
⚫
The GameStick product consists of two main elements: a cordless controller and the console itself, along with a charging cable. The controller has two analog sticks, a directional pad, A/B/X/Y face buttons, shoulder buttons, and system buttons for power and menus. There is a slot for storing the flash drive console inside the controller, making the entirety of the console approximately the same size and roughly the same price as a large name console controller. The controller connects to the console through Bluetooth. A GameStick dock is also available, which allows faster internet access with an Ethernet plug-in, charging access for both the controller and the console, additional storage space, and being able to connect to various devices such as USB keyboards, webcams, microphones, and dance mats.<ref>{{cite web
⚫
|url=http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/872297630/gamestick-the-most-portable-tv-games-console-ever/posts/388488
|title=You spoke and we listened.|work=Kickstarter|publisher=GameStick}}</ref> The console and controller have been released in four colors: black, white, red, and a "Kickstarter Special" green and black. Certain supporters received limited edition gold-colored consoles. The console contains an HDMI connector for the user's television, internal processor and memory, and all wireless radios.<ref name="gaducated1">{{cite web|url=http://www.gaducated.com/android-game-consoles-ouya-vs-gamestick/ |title=Android Game Consoles: Ouya vs GameStick |publisher=gaducated.com |date=2013-02-02 |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref> The GameStick can access the internet via Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n. Up to four controllers can connect via Bluetooth 4.0, as can wireless keyboards and mice (also via Bluetooth), allowing both console and PC gamers to feel at home with the console. The GameStick also supports iOS and Android devices as controllers. The system itself is Android based and thus, is an extension of the Android platform; however, it is iOS compatible. Playback will support 1080 HD playback as well as XBMC DLNA with an optional firmware upgrade. The GameStick uses an interface similar to the tiled dashboard on the [[Xbox 360]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/01/02/gamestick-takes-on-ouya-as-a-portable-android-game-console |title=GameStick Takes on Ouya as a Portable Android Games Console |publisher=IGN |date=2013-01-02 |accessdate=2013-04-09}}</ref> The charging cable is a micro USB cable, therefore, it is compatible with any device that supports a micro USB charger.


GameStick was the first third-party device to licence [[List of software based on XBMC#ToFu Media Platform and ToFu Media Center by Pivos|ToFu Media Center]], a derivative fork of [[XBMC|XBMC Media Center]].<ref>[http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/10/prweb11249720.htm Pivos Brings TOFU Media Center to GameStick Store at Launch]</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.tv/gamestick/review GameStick Review]</ref><ref>[http://gadgetshow.channel5.com/gadgets/games/consoles/playjam-gamestick PlayJam GameStick]</ref>
GameStick was the first third-party device to license [[List of software based on XBMC#ToFu Media Platform and ToFu Media Center by Pivos|ToFu Media Center]], a derivative fork of [[XBMC|XBMC Media Center]].<ref>[http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/10/prweb11249720.htm Pivos Brings TOFU Media Center to GameStick Store at Launch]</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.stuff.tv/gamestick/review |title=GameStick Review |access-date=2013-10-28 |archive-date=2016-03-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304185909/http://www.stuff.tv/gamestick/review |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://gadgetshow.channel5.com/gadgets/games/consoles/playjam-gamestick |title=PlayJam GameStick |access-date=2013-10-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131110223853/http://gadgetshow.channel5.com/gadgets/games/consoles/playjam-gamestick |archive-date=2013-11-10 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


==Reception==
==Reception==
{{Expand section|date=August 2014}}
{{Expand section|date=August 2014}}


[[The Verge]] praised the minimalist design and low cost, but were concerned by the limited game selection, the locked-down software and hardware, and the under-powered CPU that was unable to play the latest Android games.<ref>{{cite web|author=The Verge |url=http://www.theverge.com/2013/11/1/5046580/gamestick-review |title=GameStick review: the Android console battle is on |publisher=The Verge |date=2013-11-01 |accessdate=2013-11-04}}</ref> Similarly, [[Engadget]] cited the portability, low price, and slick design as the strengths of the GameStick, but were disappointed by the selection of games and the hardware, which they said could be outdated fairly quickly.<ref>{{cite web|author=Engadget |url=http://www.engadget.com/2013/11/11/gamestick-review/ |title=GameStick review: Android console gaming still awaits its king |publisher=Engadget |date=2013-11-11 |accessdate=2015-05-11}}</ref>
''[[The Verge]]'' praised the GameStick's minimalist design and low cost, but criticized its limited game selection, its locked-down software and hardware, and its under-powered CPU, which was unable to play the latest Android games.<ref>{{cite web|author=The Verge |url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/11/1/5046580/gamestick-review |title=GameStick review: the Android console battle is on |publisher=The Verge |date=2013-11-01 |access-date=2013-11-04}}</ref> Similarly, [[Engadget]] cited the device's portability, low price, and slick design as strengths but was disappointed by the selection of games and the hardware, which it said could become outdated fairly quickly.<ref>{{cite web|author=Engadget |url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/11/11/gamestick-review/ |title=GameStick review: Android console gaming still awaits its king |publisher=Engadget |date=2013-11-11 |access-date=2015-05-11}}</ref>

== Shutdown ==
The GameStick website began displaying a message saying that they would be shutting down the service after two years of operation, stating that after January 9th, 2017, the storefront would be inactive.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://zone.gamestick.tv/home|title=GameStick Retired|access-date=2017-12-13|archive-date=2017-12-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171213144136/https://zone.gamestick.tv/home|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In December 2017, the GameStick website showed only the goodbye message and presented an expired SSL certificate. It is unlikely the service will ever return and the device itself is indirectly discontinued. Attempting to visit the GameStick website will cause a redirection to a Turkish soccer betting website.


==See also==
==See also==
Line 82: Line 81:


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category|GameStick}}
* {{Official website|http://www.gamestick.tv/}}
* {{Official website|http://www.gamestick.tv/}}


⚫
{{Android other}}
{{Eighth generation game consoles}}
{{Eighth generation game consoles}}
{{Microconsoles}}
{{Microconsoles}}
⚫
{{Android other}}


[[Category:Android (operating system) devices]]
[[Category:Android-based video game consoles]]
[[Category:Kickstarter projects]]
[[Category:ARM-based video game consoles]]
[[Category:Video game consoles]]
[[Category:Eighth-generation video game consoles]]
⚫
[[Category:Microconsoles]]
⚫
[[Category:Kickstarter-funded video game consoles]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 2013]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 2013]]
⚫
[[Category:Microconsoles]]
⚫
[[Category:Eighth-generation video game consoles]]

Latest revision as of 15:35, 27 April 2024

GameStick
Also known asGame Stick
DeveloperPlayJam
Product familyFirst Generation
TypeMicroconsole
Release dateNovember 15, 2013 (2013-11-15)
Introductory priceUS$79 (equivalent to $103.33 in 2023)
Operating systemAndroid 4.1 Jelly Bean
System on a chipAmlogic 8726-MX
CPUARM Cortex A9
Memory1 GB DDR3
Storage8 GB internal flash memory
DisplayHDMI
1080p, 720p
GraphicsMali-400 MP
InputBluetooth
Controller inputWireless controller
Connectivity
DimensionsSize of a flash drive
SuccessorPlayJam OTT
Websitewww.gamestick.tv

The GameStick is a discontinued home video game console developed by PlayJam. It is a microconsole the size of a USB flash drive that plugs directly into the back of a TV through an HDMI port and ships with its own Bluetooth controller. Users can download content from a curated storefront via Wi-Fi, with content stored locally for offline access. The device is powered by the PlayJam Games Platform and runs its own version of the Android operating system. It is portable and aimed at casual to mid-core gamers. Like the Ouya, it was funded through Kickstarter.

Because of a change in production methods, the original release date of June 2013 was delayed,[1][2] and units did not ship to retailers until early November 2013.[3] The GameStick features an exclusive game and access to its app store, which mainly sells casual games. All systems can be used as development kits, allowing any GameStick owner to also be a developer, without licensing fees. The GameStick is part of the eighth generation of video game consoles.

Jasper Smith (chief executive officer of PlayJam) and the PlayJam development team began recruiting support early in the process. Before the project's launch, GameStick, based out of San Francisco, California, was said to have support from more than 1,000 developers.[4] Game designers interested in the project could pledge $500 in exchange for a prototype unit and development kit one month before launch. As of February 2013, the game was successfully funded with over 5,600 backers and about $650,000 raised.[5]

Design and specifications[edit]

The GameStick consists of the flash-drive-sized console and a wireless Bluetooth controller. The controller has two analog sticks, a directional pad, four face buttons, two shoulder buttons, four system buttons for power and menus, and a slot in which the console can be stored. A GameStick dock is also available; it allows faster internet access with an Ethernet port, charging access for both the controller and the console, additional storage space, and the ability to connect to various peripherals such as USB keyboards, webcams, microphones, and dance mats.[6] The console contains an HDMI connector, an internal processor and memory, and wireless radios.[7]

Up to four controllers can be connected via Bluetooth 4.0, as can wireless keyboards and mice. The GameStick also supports iOS and Android devices as controllers. The system itself is Android-based but iOS compatible. The device supports 1080 HD playback as well as XBMC DLNA with an optional firmware upgrade. The GameStick uses an interface similar to the tiled dashboard on the Xbox 360.[8] The charger is a micro USB cable.

GameStick was the first third-party device to license ToFu Media Center, a derivative fork of XBMC Media Center.[9][10][11]

Reception[edit]

The Verge praised the GameStick's minimalist design and low cost, but criticized its limited game selection, its locked-down software and hardware, and its under-powered CPU, which was unable to play the latest Android games.[12] Similarly, Engadget cited the device's portability, low price, and slick design as strengths but was disappointed by the selection of games and the hardware, which it said could become outdated fairly quickly.[13]

Shutdown[edit]

The GameStick website began displaying a message saying that they would be shutting down the service after two years of operation, stating that after January 9th, 2017, the storefront would be inactive.[14]

In December 2017, the GameStick website showed only the goodbye message and presented an expired SSL certificate. It is unlikely the service will ever return and the device itself is indirectly discontinued. Attempting to visit the GameStick website will cause a redirection to a Turkish soccer betting website.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created by GameStick » Project Update - 158 Days In. — Kickstarter. Kickstarter.com. Retrieved on 2013-08-23.
  2. ^ "BBC News – Gamestick console release date delayed". BBC News. 8 April 2013. Retrieved 2013-04-09.
  3. ^ "Update 46: Update - Feedback. · GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created".
  4. ^ Mallory, Jordan (2013-01-03). "GameStick Android console is the size of a USB stick". Joystiq. Retrieved 2013-04-09.
  5. ^ "GameStick: The Most Portable TV Games Console Ever Created".
  6. ^ "You spoke and we listened". Kickstarter. GameStick.
  7. ^ "Android Game Consoles: Ouya vs GameStick". gaducated.com. 2013-02-02. Archived from the original on 2013-02-20. Retrieved 2013-04-09.
  8. ^ "GameStick Takes on Ouya as a Portable Android Games Console". IGN. 2013-01-02. Retrieved 2013-04-09.
  9. ^ Pivos Brings TOFU Media Center to GameStick Store at Launch
  10. ^ "GameStick Review". Archived from the original on 2016-03-04. Retrieved 2013-10-28.
  11. ^ "PlayJam GameStick". Archived from the original on 2013-11-10. Retrieved 2013-10-28.
  12. ^ The Verge (2013-11-01). "GameStick review: the Android console battle is on". The Verge. Retrieved 2013-11-04.
  13. ^ Engadget (2013-11-11). "GameStick review: Android console gaming still awaits its king". Engadget. Retrieved 2015-05-11.
  14. ^ "GameStick Retired". Archived from the original on 2017-12-13. Retrieved 2017-12-13.

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=GameStick&oldid=1221053276"