The Guide to an Epic Gaming Setup

Introduction

Every gamer knows that establishing the perfect setup is extremely crucial to the prime gaming session. Whether you play on PC or console, optimizing your space to provide the most comfortable environment is the key to surviving those endless gaming marathons.

However, if you’re new to the game (no pun intended), don’t worry because it’s really easy to assemble and decorate your personal gaming haven according to your liking once you know the basics that go into it.

Gaming Monitors

Probably the most important component to begin your gaming setup would be the monitor; without which, it’s impossible to game at all. Although there are many different brands and types of monitors of varying technical specs out there, we’ll leave that to your own gamer discretion. Instead, we’ll provide you with some tips on optimizing physical functionality and comfort for your viewing pleasure.

PC monitors

Since you’ll be sitting at a table for PC gaming, you’d want to ensure that your monitor is firm and sturdy. Moreover, it’s ideal to be meticulous during the setup process to avoid any unforeseen monitor collapses.

When discussing PC monitors, it’s impossible to ignore your desk as well. Things to consider when purchasing a desk for your monitor would be to ensure that it has a broad, flat surface with ample surface area to accommodate your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and other gaming paraphernalia. If it comes with shelves and drawer units or consists of double-leveled tiers, those would be a plus. Extra storage space and elevated platforms to prevent tragic spillages are always a good thing. Lastly, don’t forget to check that your legs have enough space to fit comfortably underneath the table.

In conjunction, see if you can install a monitor mount (either on your desk or on the wall) slightly above eye level and at a comfortable distance away to minimize both neck and eye strain. For more freedom in monitor position adjustments, a height-adjustable mount, articulating mount or full-motion mount is your go-to. Or if you’re extra, you can even opt for a multi-monitor mount for maximum gaming efficiency. And for those who prefer gaming laptops that you can take anywhere, be sure to look for the best portable gaming laptop for the days when you want to lounge on the couch and game at the same time.

Console TV monitors

For consoles, TV monitors would probably be the preferred choice along with either a TV stand or TV mount. Furthermore, since console gaming includes a wider array of accessories like controllers and chargers, ensure that you have sufficient storage space to accommodate them too. Hence, we’d actually advise a TV stand instead of a mount to fulfill this.

Gaming Chairs

The next important component would be your chair. Why? Simply because no one ever stands up and game, right? Admittedly, gaming is as sedentary as it gets, thus if you don’t have the best chair to provide optimal comfort, you might potentially suffer from an amalgamation of back and shoulder pains. As a result, identifying a chair that guarantees both comfort and function are the two key criteria during the selection process. However, a common rookie mistake that many amateur gamers make is that they don’t see the value in investing hundreds of dollars into a chair.

PC Chairs

While many PC chairs resemble standard office roller chairs, for the most part, they actually come with an impressive array of additional features. For example, gaming chairs have the capacity to be equipped with built-in Bluetooth speakers, adjustable armrests, and even massage features. Now perhaps, a gaming chair seems worth the investment?

For further details, pay attention to a chair’s design, material, and size. Don’t choose it simply because of its aesthetics alone. It should also be able to satisfy your physical needs. Look out for good lumbar or full-body support because this factor would be your guard against spinal discomfort. Additionally, when it comes to material, it’s entirely up to your preference. Some gamers prefer softer and breathable materials like mesh and cotton although they’re more prone to water and stains. Conversely, others might prefer more waterproof and stain-resistant materials like (faux) leather and vinyl but do note that they lack in breathability.

Console chairs

For console chairs, the main criteria is slightly different because it depends on the level of your monitor set-up. Unlike PC gaming where your setup is fixated by a table, a console monitor can either be situated on the floor or on a TV stand. As a result, console chairs come in primarily two styles: the rocker and the floor.

Rocker chairs have the traditional silhouette of a chair, except for the fact that it can rock back and forth and has reclining features. On the other hand, floor chairs mostly resemble fluffy pillows or bean bag chairs. Unsurprisingly, rocker chairs provide more structural support while floor chairs win in the comfort category. Likewise, the same criteria of material, size, and function apply to console chairs during your selection process.

Other Accessories

Once you’ve acquired the gaming setup basics, it’s time to turn our attention to decorating it with your personal flare. Such accessories include:

Blackout Curtains

Sunlight may or may not be your best friend when it inhibits your view with annoying glares.

LED lights and Neon Lights/Signs

If you’re a gamer who appreciates atmospheric, cinematic ambiance by gaming in the dark, then LED strip lights are an excellent accessory to include in your arsenal. Not only do they give off a futuristic, edgy feel, but customizing their colors are undoubtedly their coolest feature. You can choose to align them along your ceiling or floor perimeters to surround your entire room. Alternatively, you can also opt for neon lights and signs for a grungier, noir vibe. Together with blackout curtains, these eye-catching lighting fixtures are sure to complement it well.

Graphic Prints and Posters

Last but not least, why not support some of your favorite gaming franchises by purchasing their graphic prints and posters to paste on your walls. Not only do they look artistic, but they also allow you to express your enthusiasm and passion for the games too.

Final thoughts

Hopefully, all these tips and tricks shared so far would be useful in assisting your journey to achieving your dream gaming setup. If you’re unable to obtain all the components at one go, don’t stress. Building your ultimate setup is a step-by-step process, depending on your budget and funding capabilities. However, it’s a 100% rewarding experience in the long run if you continuously work on it. If virtual gaming isn’t cutting it anymore, then new real-life experiences such as escape rooms can offer you the next best thing. Gather a team of friends or family and challenge the escape room to see if you have the skills to escape. Escape team events have a lot of different themed rooms to challenge you and your friends.