A game room can be a major differentiator for a short-term rental — but only when it’s done right. When the space is intuitive, durable, and easy to use, it becomes one of the most talked-about features in reviews. When it’s cluttered, confusing, or filled with fragile items, it quickly turns into a maintenance headache.
This STR game room essentials checklist is designed for hosts who want a game room that guests actually use and enjoy, without creating extra work between stays. The focus is on high-impact entertainment, durable equipment, and setups that don’t require instructions or constant adjustment.
Everything below reflects what we’ve found works best in real short-term rentals — items that hold up to repeat use, appeal to a wide range of ages, and consistently deliver value.
How to Use This STR Game Room Essentials Checklist
This page is meant to function as a working setup guide for hosts and owners.
Use this checklist when:
-
Adding a game room to a new short-term rental
-
Upgrading an underperforming or outdated space
-
Replacing games that aren’t getting used
-
Simplifying a game room that’s become cluttered
This guide focuses on:
-
Guest-friendly entertainment
-
Durability and ease of maintenance
-
Simple setups that don’t require explanations
-
Items that reset easily between stays
Core STR Game Room Essentials (Must-Haves)
If you only focus on one section, make it this one. These are the items that deliver the biggest impact with the least complexity.
Core essentials include:
-
One standout game or activity that anchors the room
-
A TV with a guest-friendly system
-
Comfortable seating or stools
-
Clear floor space for movement and play
Arcade Games: High Impact, Low Effort
One of the most consistently successful additions to STR game rooms is a 1Up-style arcade game. These machines are instantly recognizable, easy to use, and appeal to both kids and adults.
Why arcade games work so well:
-
No instructions required
-
Nostalgic for adults, fun for kids
-
Compact footprint
-
Minimal setup and maintenance
One well-chosen arcade game often gets more use — and more mentions in reviews — than multiple smaller games.
Game Tables: Only If the Space Truly Allows
Game tables can be a great addition, but only when the room has enough space for comfortable play. Forcing a large table into a tight room usually leads to frustration and damage.
Best-performing game tables for STRs:
-
Foosball tables
-
Shuffleboard tables
-
Combination tables (air hockey / ping pong)
Avoid tables that:
-
Require frequent re-leveling
-
Have many loose parts
-
Feel flimsy after repeated use
If the room feels tight, it’s better to skip a table entirely than to crowd the space.
TVs in the Game Room: What We Recommend
A TV in the game room adds flexibility and increases the space’s usefulness. It allows guests to:
-
Watch sports while playing games
-
Use the room as a secondary hangout space
-
Keep kids entertained during downtime
Best practices:
-
Use the same TV system throughout the house
-
Roku TVs are ideal due to Guest Mode and easy resets
-
Mount or place the TV for comfortable viewing
Recommended TV size:
-
65″ TV for most game rooms
Consistency across rooms reduces guest confusion and support messages.
Seating & Layout Considerations
Game rooms should feel open and easy to move through.
What works best:
-
Bar stools or simple chairs
-
Benches along walls
-
Seating that’s easy to move or stack
Avoid heavy furniture that blocks play areas or limits flexibility.
Lighting: Bright, Functional, and Durable
Good lighting makes games easier to play and helps the room feel inviting.
Lighting tips:
-
Bright overhead lighting for visibility
-
Avoid dim or moody lighting
-
Use durable fixtures that can handle activity
Lighting should support play first, atmosphere second.
Storage & Organization
Keeping game rooms organized helps prevent lost pieces and clutter.
Helpful storage includes:
-
Shelving for board games
-
Bins or drawers for accessories
-
A designated place for remotes and controllers
Avoid open piles or overly decorative storage that looks messy quickly.
Electronics & Accessories
A few small additions can prevent guest frustration.
Recommended items:
-
Extra batteries
-
Surge protectors (out of sight)
-
Simple cable management
If instructions are needed, keep them minimal and visual.
Decor: Keep It Fun, Not Fragile
Decor can add personality, but it shouldn’t interfere with use.
What works best:
-
Minimal wall décor
-
Durable signage or prints
-
A theme that doesn’t overwhelm the room
Avoid fragile décor or anything that can be easily damaged during play.
Game Room Essentials Quantity Guidance
Keep quantities realistic and manageable.
General guidelines:
-
One primary game or table per room
-
Seating for at least half of your maximum occupancy
-
One TV per game room
Quality and usability matter more than quantity.
Common Game Room Mistakes to Avoid
-
Too many games competing for space
-
Complicated setups that require instructions
-
Flimsy tables or equipment
-
Poor lighting
-
Inconsistent tech setups
Simple, intuitive spaces perform better over time.
STR Game Room Essentials Checklist (Complete List)
-
View on Amazon$334.00We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:11 am GMT -
View on Amazon$499.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:11 am GMT -
View on Amazon$499.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:11 am GMT -
View on Amazon$499.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:11 am GMT -
View on Amazon$599.00We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
-
View on Amazon$56.86We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$103.98We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$620.70We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$649.85We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$309.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$435.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$792.40We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:12 am GMT -
View on Amazon$1,099.95We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:13 am GMT -
View on Amazon$674.95We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:13 am GMT -
View on Amazon$44.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:13 am GMT -
View on Amazon$2,399.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 12:13 am GMT -
View on Amazon$399.99We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
01/07/2026 01:02 am GMT
Complete Short-Term Rental Essentials (Room by Room)
Use the links below to access the complete checklist for each space.
Short-Term Rental Essentials Hub
STR Kitchen Essentials Checklist
STR Bedroom Essentials Checklist
STR Outdoor Essentials Checklist
STR Coffee Bar Essentials Checklist
STR Security Essentials Checklist
STR Furniture Essentials Checklist
STR Living Room Essentials Checklist
STR Household Essentials Checklist
Final Thoughts
A great game room doesn’t need to be complicated. When it’s intuitive, durable, and thoughtfully equipped, it becomes one of the most memorable parts of a stay.
Use this checklist to build a game room that guests actually use, enjoy, and talk about — without creating extra work for you as a host.
Last Updated 1/6/2026