Firestick devices can run a surprising number of games, from cloud gaming apps to retro emulators, and most of them are far more enjoyable with a real controller than the included remote. Pairing one takes less than a minute.

Compatible Controllers

Most standard Bluetooth game controllers work, including Xbox Wireless Controllers, PS4 and PS5 controllers, and dedicated Fire TV controllers sold by Amazon and third parties. Wired USB controllers can also work on models with a USB port, either directly or through a USB hub.

How to Pair a Controller

  1. From the Firestick home screen, go to Settings, then Controllers & Bluetooth Devices, then Other Bluetooth Devices.
  2. Select Add Bluetooth Device.
  3. Put your controller into pairing mode (usually by holding a small pairing button, or the PS/Xbox button, until its light flashes rapidly).
  4. Select the controller’s name once it appears in the list on screen to complete pairing.

Where to Find Games to Play

The Amazon Appstore has a dedicated Games section with titles built for Fire TV, and cloud gaming apps let you stream console-quality games without installing anything large. Once a controller is paired, it’ll automatically reconnect and work with any app that supports controller input.

Troubleshooting Controller Connection Issues

If a controller won’t reconnect automatically, remove it from Other Bluetooth Devices and pair it again from scratch. Controllers previously paired to a phone or console usually need to be put back into pairing mode rather than just turned on, since they’ll try to reconnect to the last device they remember. If input feels laggy, move closer to the Firestick and remove other Bluetooth accessories that might be competing for the connection.

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