Is VR Technology Right for You? Here’s What to Consider

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Virtual reality, or VR, has increased in popularity and accessibility over the last few years. With multiple comparable devices and platforms available, what might have seemed like science fiction is now part of some peoples’ regular gaming routines. VR is something you can have in your own home and use anytime, but it might not work for everyone. Here we’ll go over the important things to consider when setting up VR in your home.

Floor Space

While each VR device on the market is different, most have basic requirements for physical space. Most companies recommend a minimum of 3 feet by 3 feet space to sit or stand and ideally more. Because a VR headset will completely disguise your surroundings, you won’t know if you’re about to bump into an end table or even a wall. Setting a clear boundary on the floor will help keep you (and your furniture) safe.

Ceiling Height

It’s a common misconception that you need high ceilings for a successful VR setup. In actuality, only one of the VR sets available on the market has sensors you attach to ceilings or walls. Otherwise there are no height requirements beyond what makes sense for your personal height. Some sensors you can attach to the top of a computer monitor, while others you can place using free-standing mounts like camera tripods.

Internet Connection

Not all VR games require the internet, but a solid connection is essential for multiplayer gaming. Connecting directly via wired Ethernet connection is ideal, though Wi-Fi will also work as long as the signal is powerful enough. This is another thing that’s important to factor in to your VR design plans, as having the router nearby can give you an advantage.

Cable Management

Unfortunately, VR comes with a lot of cables that can cause frustration and even safety hazards if not properly managed. The most common issue is the head mounted display cables that connect to your PC or other platform. While these cables are typically extremely long to allow for flexibility and movement, it’s easy to trip over them. Some VR enthusiasts use ceiling-mounted cable management systems to keep these cables off of the floor and out of the way.

Flooring

Technically, there is no type of flooring required for using VR. However, a lot of VR games and apps available encourage physical movement and exercise. Depending on the game, you might be jumping, crawling, jogging in place or crouching on the floor. Most experts recommend setting up your VR system in a room that has carpeting, ideally with thick padding underneath. Other options include large foam mats or interlocking tiles, which come with the added convenience of movement and storage when VR time is over.

If you’re considering bringing VR into your home gaming life, it’s important to be mindful of your environment. Staying safe is key, but the better outfitted your room is for VR, the more fun you’ll have. Measure carefully and look for retailers that have rental options so you can give this technology a try.

Entertaining at home: Simple ways to improve your gaming room setup

game controller blue and pink background image text designing the perfect game room five tips for your ideal setup

Home entertainment used to refer to large sound systems and robust flat screen televisions. But today, it involves a
little more, especially when it comes to video games and game rooms. In fact, there’s a good chance you already have
a room designated for gaming and hanging out, even if you don’t know it.

Regardless of your game room setup, there are ways to make improvements – and they may not be as difficult as you
think.

Here are five (5) simple ways to improve your gaming room setup:

Designated gaming room

When it comes to gaming, making sure you have enough room can be a bit of a hassle. Don’t worry. Even if you have
limited space or every room in your house has a purpose, you can still create a designated gaming room.

For example, if you have an open floor plan or are using another multipurpose room, try adding some vertical storage
before setting up your gaming area. Damage-free strips, shelves, shallow bookcases and other minimal wall utilities
are great for clearing out space for your new gaming area.

Once you’ve created your space, choose your primary device. If you’re a virtual reality (VR) gamer, be sure you have
enough room to move around.

Gaming chair and accessories

VR gaming isn’t the only way to upgrade your gaming space. Adding accessories, such as small projectors against a
blank wall, wall-mounted surround sound systems and even controller holders and racks, is a great way to optimize
your gaming room setup. However, one of the most important facets is the gaming chair.

This type of video game room furniture is crucial, especially for those who plan to spend a lot of time diving into
their game worlds. Find a chair that supports your back and doesn’t put strain on pressure points. For those with
only a little room to game, try a chair that has its speakers built in. Some may even come with rumble packs that
can be wirelessly connected to your system.

Ambient lighting

Lighting is crucial for any game room, especially a small video game room. You’ll want to choose light that doesn’t
reflect off the screen or game surface. In fact, ambient lighting can set the arcade or game room mood without
heavily impacting the game itself or the gamer.

Try using soft light bulbs or small wall lights with frosted shades to keep the light from directly impacting your
gaming area. Remember, you want to keep the light bright enough to maneuver what you’re doing, but not so bright
that it could cause a distraction or hinder gameplay.

Gaming space

Whether you have an entire game room or a corner of a multipurpose room, how your space is arranged is crucial. Be
sure to keep enough room to get animated, especially where VR is concerned.

Keep small, easily movable items out of your gaming space to ensure they don’t get broken, damaged or misplaced. To
avoid injury, be sure to move any excess furniture or make sure your current furniture setup won’t interfere with
your gaming experience.

Gaming setup

Gaming rooms often have their required specs: game consoles, tabletop gaming setup, audio where needed, video where
applicable, etc. However, making sure your gaming setup is at its optimal levels is the difference between a good
gaming experience and an exceptional one.

If you have an auxiliary system, be sure the projecting components – like speakers – are pointed toward you or in the
direction of the primary player. 

If you’re using a screen, be sure the speaker is large enough to accommodate the details and graphics of your chosen
platform. You’ll also want to ensure you have enough room behind your electronic pieces to keep them from
overheating.

Infographic article summary designing the perfect game room five tips for your ideal setup

Creating a game room to accommodate your gaming style doesn’t have to be elaborate. If you currently game, there’s a
chance you already have many of these items. If you’re just starting out in the gaming world but want to create your
perfect gaming sanctuary in your home, try applying these game room ideas when you first set up your gaming area.