When you have more time to talk about games, than actually play them.
Every true gamer ends up with a collection of PC gaming hardware. Each PC gamer starts out with the basics: CPU, motherboard, RAM, SSD, PC tower, video card, power supply, keyboard, mouse, desk, chair, monitor and a headset or speakers. Those make up the PC Gamer starter pack. It’s a lot of equipment that can get really expensive, but those are just the start.
Obviously all those parts can be upgraded from the low end to enthusiast/take my money level, but the next level of gamers get other hardware. Now I’m talking PC gaming hardware like HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick), racing wheels (with pedals and h-gate shifter), webcam or TrackIR for head tracking, game synced lighting and VR headset with motion controls.
That’s not even the top level, because there’s crazy stuff that is just becoming consumer ready PC gaming hardware like: sim cockpits, VR treadmills, tactile vest (feel the gunshots), AR controls, etc.. The basic hardware is always improving with the latest and greatest priced in the thousands for months or years before it becomes affordable.
Console players have to wait for the next generation to buy the next version of the console, but PC gaming hardware can be upgraded every year or even after a few months. It’s a costly hobby for anyone that feels the need to always have the latest and greatest. PC tech consumer tech usually catches up to new consoles before they even release.
PC gaming hardware can be a lot more complicated than a simple plug and play console, but the amount of customization it allows make it worth learning how to install and maintain it.
For example, it took a lot tweaking, but I was able to play GTA V with racing wheel for cars, HOTAS for airplanes/helicopters, then keyboard/mouse for on foot. There really is nothing like having one hand on the wheel in GTA and the other on the mouse, controlling the aim of a gun.
Way back when I started playing Vertigo 2, I had an issue where my controllers would turn off after only 1 minute. I fixed it back then by changing chargers and letting it sit overnight. Unfortunately, that was only a temp fix. Fast forward to this month and nothing kept my controllers running. I finally … Read moreReplacing Valve Index Controller Batteries
For years, I sat in a typical leather racing style gaming chair. After age led to creaking and less back support, time for an upgrade. My Amazon searches led me to the GTRacing fabric racing style gaming chair with footrest. I’m super happy with the upgrade and highly recommend this chair or any with similar … Read moreRacing Style Gaming Chair Upgrade
For years, I flew with my Saitek X55 Rhino HOTAS (Hands On Throttle and Stick). Saitek doesn’t even exist anymore. Now that Logitech owns the tech, I finally upgraded to the new Logitech G X56 HOTAS. My old setup worked, but there were a few reasons to upgrade. The new HOTAS is very familiar, but … Read moreMy New Logitech G X56 HOTAS Upgrade
Back when I chose my new gamer desk, the importance of room on the desk for my Saitek X-55 HOTAS was part of the decision. There’s plenty of room for them on there, but the placement is not ideal. I’ve now solved that placement problem with my new Logitech HOTAS Desk Mounts. Solving my Logitech … Read moreNew Logitech HOTAS Desk Mounts
I’ve played plenty of Game Pass over the past year, but not on my Steam Deck, until now. Game Pass on Steam Deck setup finally. It’s not the easiest first time setup, but I’m impressed how well it works when it does. Microsoft was nice enough to provide a detailed article on how to setup, … Read moreGame Pass on Steam Deck Setup Finally
Last upgrade, I finally upgraded to the Alienware OLED gaming monitor. Now it’s time to see if the Samsung 980 Pro SSD upgrade is worth it. Next to my old monitor, my old SSD clocks in as the second most years between upgrades. Did I need a new SSD? No, but I’m happy with the … Read moreSamsung 980 Pro SSD Upgrade is Worth It