Gaming’s popularity has become impossible to ignore in recent years with the growth of the video game industry and the increasing availability of high-quality gaming devices. People are turning to gaming as their primary form of entertainment for the social aspect of playing with friends and the format’s ability to transport players into other worlds.
Advancements in technology have made gaming more accessible and immersive including the arrival of high quality consumer grade virtual and augmented reality systems. The rise of mobile gaming on increasingly more capable smart devices has brought the pastime to a wider audience.
Mobile gaming acts as a gateway for many casual gamers to become more involved in the hobby, leading many to customize their own setup in a games room. Achieving the perfect setup takes time and planning and often an element of trial and error but this guide aims to take the hassle out of creating the gaming setup of your dreams.
Initial Considerations
Designing the perfect gaming room requires considering several factors. First and foremost you must decide what the focus of the room will be.
You may want a console area to be the centerpiece of the room, in which case you’re likely to need a good size television, maybe mounted to the wall, and some comfy seating at a good distance from it. Alternatively, you may be a PC gamer, which – more often than not – focuses on a solo gaming experience.
PC gaming provides the most versatility from your setup since they can be customized to support any style of game. Action games like first-person shooters are popular as are more relaxed casino style games like lightning roulette which can be played, along with a library of other fantastic titles, at market leading providers Rainbow Riches Casino.
Your games space needn’t just be a media room; you may wish to have pool, air hockey or table football take pride of place which each require substantial space around them in order to be played properly. Or you might want your favorite childhood arcade machine or a dartboard to feature.
Determine the size and layout of the room. Consider the size of your furniture and the number of people who will be using the room. Making a plan either using room sketcher software or cutting out a to scale paper plan if you find it easier to visualize things in the physical world.
Seating
If you’re focussing on a PC gaming setup, outside of the computer and monitor expenses, your best money is spent on a comfy gaming chair. Go to your nearest office supply store and test out as many as you can, since everyone’s unique proportions demand different specifications.
Fully adjustable gaming chairs are best, with armrests, wheels and brakes, and good support for the lumbar and upper back/head. When gaming sessions can last several hours, the last thing you want is a sore neck from inadequate seating.
Even if your setup is focussed on solo gaming, consider comfortable seating for when you have guests.
Other Furniture
PC gamers should look for a strong desk with sufficient width to be able to move your mouse from the elbow. Professional esports athletes swear by large mouse pads and precision mice to maximize their accuracy when playing games.
You can also make use of headphone hooks to store them safely when not in use and other storage solutions for peripherals. Make sure your PC and desk is in a well ventilated part of the room to give your cooling systems the best chance of working efficiently.
For console setups, side tables are essential to make sure drinks and snacks are kept away from expensive electronics.
Displays
Invest in high-quality displays. A large, high-resolution, widescreen monitor or television is essential for an immersive gaming experience. Multi-monitor setups provide the most immersive gameplay. Purchase an adjustable bracket to support them and attach them to your desk.
Lighting
Consider lighting. Good lighting can improve the gaming experience, so consider installing task lighting for the desk and ambient lighting for the room. Experiment with different lighting ideas, lamps, uplighters and colors since they make a big impact on the feel of the room.
Storage
Include storage for gaming equipment. Consider adding shelves, cabinets or drawers to store gaming consoles, controllers and other equipment when not in use.
Functionality
Create a functional space. Make sure the room has plenty of outlets and a good internet connection. Nothing will be more frustrating than a weak WiFi signal; wired connections are the most reliable.
Consider adding a sound system for a fully immersive audio experience or at the least a good quality set of headphones if you want to give your neighbors a break.
Your Own Personal Touch
Personalize the space. The idea is to create a comfortable and inviting space that you want to spend time in, so add as much of your own personality as possible. Add posters, wall art and other decorations that reflect your gaming interests and personality.
Keep It Tidy
Remember to keep the room organized and tidy, and to clean up after each gaming session. A well designed room will make it easy for you to keep things in order if there’s dedicated storage for your equipment.
Designing your own perfect games room is a fun process that will help you get the most out of your gaming hobby. And as your collecting grows and tastes change, you’ll find your setup grows with you.
