How to Set Up the Perfect At-Home Game Room
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With the current state of the world, people have been spending more time at home than ever before. Even as everything opens up, many have had to remain cautious and stick to small group activities. And what better way to pass the time with friends than by playing games? Games can be fun solo activities, exciting two-person undertakings, or lively group get-togethers.
In fact, games are a fantastic way to break the tension if everyone is a little out of practice when it comes to socializing. But if you're going to game, you might as well do it in style. Keep reading to learn how to create the perfect at-home gaming setup.
Storage solutions for games
Whether you’re going to have your living room double as a game room or you have a dedicated entertainment den, you’ll want to keep your area organized. This way, you can easily find games when you want to play them and your space won’t be cluttered, which can inhibit the feeling of a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Stow away board games and strategy games on a bookshelf where you and your guests can easily choose an option for the evening’s activities. If your space is limited, you can always use a drawer in a small storage cabinet to tuck your card games, so they’re always within reach when you’re ready to play a quick round.
Big games mean big fun
If you love retro arcade and table games and you have the space, why not make them available in your own home? Since they’re under your roof, you won’t have to wait for a machine to open up or deal with crowds any time you want to play.
You could pick one or two of your favorite retro games, like foosball or air hockey, or you could opt for a gaming table that converts into multiple games with a variety of choices that doesn’t take up lots of space. If you have plenty of room, you could also work on your hand-eye coordination with ping pong, arcade basketball or even a pool table. You can attempt to become the pinball wizard you’ve always dreamed of when you can get in unlimited practice with your very own retro arcade game set up in your basement or game room.
Sit back and relax on game room furniture
Besides the gaming options where you stand up to play, such as darts, there are a number of games that are usually enjoyed when seated. For example, poker games require a spacious table to lay out your cards and chips. Also, depending on the level of challenge, video games can last up to several hours, so comfortable seating is a must.
Because you want the style of your game room to match your personal aesthetic, there are a plethora of options when it comes to what furniture you may choose. Kids might enjoy lounging on bean bag chairs while they battle characters in their latest game, but you might want a more upscale look with sleek armchairs and couches. Additionally, you can mount your TV or get a TV stand with storage space for all your peripherals to help maximize space.
Set the mood with special touches
After you’ve decided on the major aspects that will go into your game room design, don’t forget to focus on the little things as well. Minor details like accent pieces and artwork can play a big part in your overall ambiance. For instance, if you’re going to host poker nights on a regular basis, you might want to try and create a casino mood without drastically changing your décor. You can do this by installing smart accent lights that are programmed to dim to just the right setting for your event. Plus, you can go the extra mile and have a humidor nearby stocked with favorites from your collection.
If you’re a fan of family game nights, make sure the mini fridge is filled with chilled beverages and turn on the popcorn maker so that snacks are covered. Another sensory need to consider is sound; having your choice of background music playing from your speakers while you strategize your next game move can add to the overall experience. With all these special touches, your game room setup will make your house the ultimate destination for game nights.