At the end of a long day, there’s nothing better than settling into a great video game. But what should be a relaxing experience too often turns into endless frustration due to a less than perfect connection and gaming lag. Fortunately, you can easily level up your game with these super simple hacks.
1. Tweak Your System
You can only buy so much hardware and software. At some point, you will need to give your system a closer look. Improve your gaming with a reliable tech set up. Start by tweaking your WiFi. Move your gaming system closer to your WiFi, instead of three rooms away. Use a good password, so you won’t have anyone adding on an extra load. Still lagging? Laggy, slow gameplay doesn’t have to be the norm.
There is a simple way to see where you stand. For a boost in performance, give your system a latency test. Latency determines how well your device responds to another device. When you push a button on your controller, how long does it take for you to see the action on screen?
If there’s a gap or pause between the two, your latency could use some improvement. Run a ping test, use an Ethernet cable for a faster connection, and if you must listen to music, do it on a separate device. The last thing you want to do is add more strain to an already struggling system.
2. Limit Any Distractions
Sitting in a high traffic room to play a video game won’t help your concentration. If your concentration suffers, you’ll lose your focus, and your high score. Situate yourself in a more private area of your home for optimum performance.
If you normally stream music while playing a video game, try turning it down. The human brain can’t focus on two things at once. It’s why, when you get lost, you reach to turn down the music. It’s too much for your brain to handle. If your favorite game features built-in music, turn down the volume and turn up the special effects sounds.
Don a pair of gaming headphones, like the lightweight, ultra comfortable Cloud Stinger gaming headset for better clarity. For games like Diablo III, the right combination of sound effects and headphones is the difference between finding the treasure goblin or missing the mark.
3. Remember to Relax
Gaming is supposed to be fun. When you go up against bosses like Yuki-Onna in Nioh or Skolas from House of Wolves, it’s enough to tear your hair out. Take a break. It’s easy to sit too long. Grab a glass of water, stretch a bit, and give yourself time to calm down before you try again (because you know you will try again).
Stick with a chair made for gamers to give you better support, and spend less time worrying about your aching back. Do yourself a favor and look into a sleek game chair like the AKRacing Premium gaming chair. With extra cushy foam, sweet leather, and its ergonomically shaped design, this chair will keep you from becoming another achy gamer. When you feel good, your game play can’t help but improve.
Better Your Experience
Play with your system’s sound effect settings, step into a room made for gaming with the right mix of comfort and quiet, and check your latency. Your online teammates will thank you later.