As I edge closer to my mid-30s – still young, my dear readers, I assure you – I find myself more committed than ever to preserving a space in my life for play.
For me, as someone who thoroughly enjoys video games, that means gaming. Now, I wouldn’t dare label myself what society today deems a gamer, but I do try to carve out a few hours here and there for my trusty Switch.
But alas, juggling a career, an active lifestyle, and an ever-growing list of hobbies often leaves me utterly drained.
Gaming can sometimes feel like a chore, and more often than not, within the first 15 minutes of gameplay, you’ll find me fast asleep in my computer chair. A tragic sight, wouldn’t you agree?
Determined to rekindle my passion, I’ve resolved to create a gaming space that’s not only cosy enough for extended play but also inspiring enough to reignite that childhood joy – the thrill of navigating dungeons and platforms while dodging fireballs.
A proper game room should feel like an invitation to unwind, where the outside world and its responsibilities melt away.
So, let’s take a closer look at some game room essentials and explore ways to achieve them without breaking the bank.
THE RIGHT SEATING
Your chair is where you’ll spend most of your time, so it’s worth investing in one that offers comfort and support.
A good ergonomic chair with lumbar support will keep you sitting upright even during marathon gaming sessions – or in my case, keep me from snoozing too early into the game.
Budget Tip: If a high-end gaming chair is out of reach, consider an office chair with ergonomic features. Many offer similar benefits at a fraction of the price.
Add a plush cushion for extra cosiness, and there you have it, instant comfort upgrade.
A FUNCTIONAL DESK
No game room is complete without a proper desk to house your consoles, monitor, and any other gadgets.
Ideally, the desk should have enough space for everything while leaving room for your snacks (a must-have, obviously).
Budget Tip: Repurpose an old dining table or find a second-hand desk online.
With a fresh coat of paint or some clever organising, you can transform it into the ultimate gaming station.
LIGHTING THAT SETS THE MOOD
Good lighting can elevate the gaming experience tenfold.
While some swear by RGB strip lights for that futuristic gamer aesthetic, a warm table lamp or soft string lights can create an equally inviting atmosphere. The key is to ensure the light isn’t too harsh – nobody wants glare bouncing off the screen, after all.
Budget Tip: Affordable LED strip lights can be found online and are surprisingly versatile.
You can even stick them behind your monitor for a softer glow that’s easier on the eyes.
STORAGE SOLUTIONS
A clutter-free space makes gaming all the more enjoyable.
Use shelves, baskets, or even repurposed crates to store your controllers, games, and other accessories neatly.
Budget Tip: Look for second-hand bookshelves or storage units.
SOUND SYSTEM OR HEADSET
Sound can make or break your gaming experience, so investing in decent audio is crucial.
A good pair of headphones can help you immerse yourself fully, especially if you’re navigating a suspenseful dungeon or dodging enemy fire.
Budget Tip: If high-end headphones are too pricey, opt for a mid-range option that balances quality and cost. There are plenty of reviews online to guide you.
Alternatively, desktop speakers can be an affordable and effective upgrade.
A COSY VIBE
Finally, your game room should feel like a sanctuary.
Add a cosy rug, a throw blanket, or even some beanbags for those days when you’d rather game while sprawled out on the floor.
Budget Tip: Shop during sales or check out thrift stores for budget-friendly finds. Comfort doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
PERSONAL TOUCHES
A game room should reflect your personality, so don’t shy away from adding items that make the space uniquely yours.
This could be posters of your favourite games, action figures, or even a plushie collection (no judgment here).
Budget Tip: Print your own posters or create DIY wall art using inexpensive frames. You’d be surprised how far a little creativity can go.
WHY ALL THIS EFFORT?
Why do we go to such lengths for a game room?
The answer is simple: life is stressful, and everyone deserves a space to unwind and reconnect with what brings them joy. A game room is about creating an environment where you can let go of your daily worries, even if only for an hour or two.
So whether you’re a casual player like me, occasionally dusting off your console, or a die-hard fan clocking in hours of gameplay, a well-thought-out gaming space can make all the difference.
And if nothing else, having a cosy chair to nap in isn’t the worst outcome either. – Wardi Wasil
