Gaming is one of the most accessible and versatile hobbies out there. You can play tabletop games, board games, mobile phone games, games on handheld devices like the Nintendo Switch or the Steam Deck, or games on consoles or PC. Simply put, you don’t necessarily need a dedicated gaming room or setup to enjoy your gaming experience.
However, it does help. If you spend hours gaming, it makes sense to want that time to be comfortable, immersive, and designed to really get the most out of your hobby. So, here are some tips to design a perfect gaming room or area.
Okay, not everyone can dedicate an entire room to gaming. While it’s great if you can, you can find other options that have a similar effect. Depending on your living situation and your preferences, your gaming setup can either be pride of place in your home or tucked away in a more private area so you won’t get distracted.
If you prefer a dedicated area for gaming, room dividers can split up a larger, multifunctional room into smaller zones. So, if your setup is in your work office, you can still keep your mind focused on your current task.
You should also find a way to control the lighting in your room. Some games are best played in the dark, so blackout blinds are a great idea.
If you’re going to be gaming for a few hours at a time, you need to think about comfort. Most chairs and even sofas aren’t designed with gaming in mind, so even a seemingly comfy armchair can give you back or neck problems before long.
Instead, it’s a better idea to find a chair designed with gaming in mind. Most desk chairs are designed for either work or play, and you can find an office chair that can double as a gaming chair when you need it to.
Unless you’re using VR or playing a tabletop/board game, you’re going to need a monitor to enjoy your gaming experience.
First, think about where you want to put the monitor. We know that the wrong chair can cause back and neck issues, but the wrong monitor can cause its own problems. The monitor should be comfortably at eye level when you’re sitting on your chair. You should also be able to see every part of the monitor without moving your head. Yes, the massive multimonitor setup looks amazing, but if you can’t see what you’re doing, it won’t be great for gaming.
You should also find a monitor designed with gaming in mind. You want crisp graphics and a backlit monitor that won’t give you eye strain. Multiple monitors also come in handy, especially if you stream while gaming or you play with friends on Discord.
No gaming setup is complete without the hardware or computer you use to game. Whether you prefer consoles, PCs, or both, find a way to display your gaming hardware where it’s safe, well-ventilated, and easy to access.
As well as the computer itself, you also need to invest in controllers depending on your preferred method of gaming. Console controllers work for their respective consoles and can also be used with a PC. Meanwhile, PC gamers have a multitude of options, including the classic keyboard and mouse or more specialized gaming controllers like a joystick.
Sound and Microphone
While graphics play a huge role in our enjoyment of video games, sound design also matters a great deal, especially when it comes to immersion. Some gamers prefer a headset with great sound quality and an attached microphone. Others prefer a sound bar or speakers that fill the room with noise.
Your microphone is especially important if you like to play with other people. A poor microphone might not impact your experience so much, but it will annoy everyone you’re playing with if they get a lot of feedback or poor-quality sound.
You can get half-decent speakers, microphones, and headsets for a reasonable price online, some of which are even suitable for live streaming.
Okay, when you’re in a game, you’re focused on the world and what you’re doing. But this doesn’t mean that your gaming area shouldn’t be decorated to look absolutely awesome.
RBG lighting is a gamer’s best friend, as well as displays and posters to show off your favorite games. Your gaming room is your haven, so make it welcoming.
