4 Things You Should Do to Create the Ultimate Gaming Battlestation

In today's gaming world, having a standard TV connected via composite cables will no longer suffice. Today's games are developed for high definition devices. Designing the perfect setup can be an overwhelming task, but as any gamer knows, it's a crucial one.

Choose Your Console

Multiple factors should be considered before purchasing a console. Does the console have the games you want to play? Does it offer features that you enjoy? XBox 360, Playstation 3, and Wii U all have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

The XBox 360 has a huge online userbase (over 48 million), thousands of games, and a ton of applications like Netflix and Hulu, but to access all of these features (and play online), you'll have to pay $19.99 for 3 months or $59.99 for a full year.

The Playstation 3 also has a huge online userbase, free online play, Blu-ray support, and similar applications to the XBox 360, but lacks backwards compatibility with Playstation 2 games, forcing you to purchase them over the Playstation Network.

The Wii U features an innovative new way to play games with your friends, full backwards compatibility with the Nintendo Wii, and a friendly (and free) online community. But, thanks to slower sales, it doesn't have the robust third party support that the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 have.

Upgrade Your TV to High Def

A high definition television is necessary for today's games. You should use your own judgment in regards to the size of the television, but to take full advantage of 1080p gaming, you'll need a television that's at least 42 inches.

The difference between 720p and 1080p is negligible on devices under 32 inches. If you're wanting to go extreme, HDTVs go as high as 90 inches.

Get Surrounded by Sound

Just as important as an HDTV, a quality sound setup is an essential part of the gaming experience. A sound system should never be blind bought, so make sure you get some hands on time with one in a showroom or at a friend's home before purchasing.

Almost every game today takes advantage of 5.1 surround sound setups. Some setups offer wireless rear speakers, which eliminates the need to run wires all over your room.

Lower the Lights

One of the biggest enemies of gamers is glare. Glare can be the difference between life and digital death.

Proper placement of lighting fixtures can reduce glare, but what about sunlight? A set of window blinds from The Shade Store will eliminate this problem, ensuring that you will live to make sure your gaming enemies rue the day they crossed your path.

Gaming has evolved from the days of CRT TVs. Games today feature cutting-edge technology and requires the perfect environment to experience the story. Everyone's setup is a little different, but these are the main things to consider before even plugging your console in.