/r/couchgaming

Photograph via snooOG

Herein we discus the subject of gaming from one's couch, easy chair, or whatever other comfortable sitting device we so desire, whilst playing PC games displayed on a large television or projector some distance away.

Couch gaming isn't a new thing, as console gamers have been doing for decades. As PCs grow cheaper, it's possible to have one in the home office for work and one in the living room for play. This subreddit focuses on the latter.

Related Subreddits:

/r/couchgaming

600 Subscribers

1

PC/Laptop Couch Gaming Questoon

Do you guys play your games on 4k whenever you play it on your tv or just keep it to 1920x1080 on your in-game settings? because there are games out there that just feel better on TV but my graphics card is not strong enough for 4k and it would just cap it to 30 fps lol.

0 Comments
2024/11/01
11:45 UTC

2

What’s your biggest challenge as a gamer from the 80s/90s in today’s world?

Let's discuss about it

4 Comments
2024/10/18
15:46 UTC

2

Couch gaming on a small screen on a table?

I would like to game while on the couch, but on a small screen I can set on the table. Any good small screen recommendations?

7 Comments
2024/06/27
23:24 UTC

5

Easy options for pc couch gaming

I want to play couch pc games as I spend too much time at my desk.

I’ve tried streaming via steam link and it’s patchy Is there any easy way to dock a system direct to the tv almost like the switch does?

Just want something easy to set up without and configs , I do have consoles but I’m looking to play pc exclusives and games that I can use mods on etc

Thanks

6 Comments
2024/06/11
21:28 UTC

6

laptop or desktop for couch gaming - $400 budget

I currently use an old Microsoft Surface Pro for couch gaming - for simple platformers it works fine, but it struggles too much with some open world adventure type games or racing games.

I don't need it to support the most recent years AAA titles, but something that can throw decent frames at Arkham series or Dirt Rally 2.0.

Just something powerful enough to get decent frames on say, like Arkham series or Dirt Rally 2.0.

Should I look at a used laptop? Or desktop is the better bet? Refurb I assume at my budget point

7 Comments
2023/03/12
13:41 UTC

2

Wrist-friendly mouse/keyboard gaming on the couch?

After years of console gaming I'm really considering getting back to using the PC as my main platform. However, through the years I set up a quite comfortable console setup that's very couch-focused: 65inch oled, surround sound system etc.

Did any of you manage to put together a setup that's wireless and comfortable while playing on the couch (the PC is too far from the couch for any mouse/keyboard cable to reach it)?

I have the PS5 controllers that I can connect to the PC, but ideally I would be able to play with mouse and keyboard, however - in addition to wireless input lag - it's just really, really uncomfortable for my wrists, as I can't put a desk nor a chair between the TV and the couch.

So my question is, did any of you find some accessories that make using the keyboard and mouse on the couch more ergonomic? Maybe a portable tray type of thing? What's the deal with input lag? Do I really need a 200$ mouse and a 200$ keyboard for comfortable (non-competitive) gaming? Will they work 3 meters away from the PC reliably (my current 50$ keyboard/mouse combo frequently loses connection mide-games, which is annoying)?

I'm happy to see any tips/tricks and accessory recommendations. Thank you!

2 Comments
2023/01/17
11:25 UTC

2

Advice for controller support in a different room

Hello everybody,

I would like to play some games on my tv by using my computer and ps5 controllers.

I bought and long HDMI cable that runs from my computer to my tv. This is working well.

Sadly I have no idea how to get my ps5 controller working from this distance. The controller is connected to my computer using bluetooth. This works fine when im close to my computer but it does not seem to work when i’m on my couch in front of the tv.

Does somebody have some advice for me about how to tackle this problem.

I was thinking about using a usb hub with a bluetooth connector plucked into it and put it under my tv. Then connect the usb hub with my computer by using a long usb cable.

Unfortunately this gets expensive fast.

So any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Greetings

5 Comments
2023/01/08
14:39 UTC

2

Trackball mouse for small space

Hello everyone. I'm looking to change my pc setup and going from desk to bed. My problem is that i don't have a bed big enough to host the couchmaster cycon (or something like that) and was looking for a good option for mouse because i love to play games like Baldur's Gate that heavily require a mouse. I was thinking what about a trackball mouse? So i don't have to move it and i can find a good resting position and still be able to play. Also: i know well it may not be the best option but do you think doom eternal would be playable with this situation? Just to avoid using a controller

0 Comments
2022/12/23
21:09 UTC

2

Long HDMI vs long USB cable?

Hello,

I have two options to put my setup, with the condition that the cable(s) from the TV to the couch are routed in the (already available) cable duct. This requires about 15m cables, power socket is available at the couch.

Option 1: PC next to the TV, route a long USB cable to a powered hub at the couch.

Option 2: PC next to the couch, route a network and a HDMI cable to the TV.

Price ranges for those cables are wild, but aiming somewhere in the middle results in similar cost.

What's the more stable solution in your opinion?

So far I'm more leaning to 1): Active USB2 cables are quite cheap (I guess for Mouse/Keyboard/Headset it's ok), and I can always use a "temporary" cable on the floor or wireless inputs if it is not reliable.

On the other hand, 2) would give me access to any ports without any USB hub.

2 Comments
2022/11/01
20:48 UTC

0 Comments
2022/10/16
22:31 UTC

2

Universal RF Receiver

Hi all,

I'd love to have a device which use RF technology like Razer or Logitech use, but let you plug in any usb devices you like.

I see it as an Hyperspeed Hub - plug a dongle with one (or even more) RF receivers into the pc. The Hub can send and receive input so you can hook up your wired mouse or keyboard without routing cables.

Is there anything like this that current exists? If not, wouldn't that be a huge success? Just plug and play and you have your wired peripherals right there.

It would need a battery but I think power usage would be low enough that a low cost rechargable battery that lasts like a week or 2 per charge would be sufficient

2 Comments
2022/10/03
14:57 UTC

4

Really excited about my upcoming couch gaming setup

Hi, all

I recently asked for some advice on a way to handle using my keyboard and mouse from my couch. (wired because my specific favorite kb and m are wired)

I received Excellent advice from u/PandaCake3 (weird that i can't link to their profile)

I decided to go with a usb over ethernet extender - after a while of wrapping my head around how it would actually work.

I plan to wrap the ethernet cord connecting the two hubs behind my couch and mounting the usb behind the couch.

I'll report on how gaming/input lag is, and if all the drivers/peripherals work as intended, or if there are any hickups along the way.

The other option is just a long powered usb cord with a usb hub on the end. IF things don't work out with my first choice, I'll try that alternative.

14 Comments
2022/09/21
13:39 UTC

3

Wireless peripheral hub?

Hi,

I have an idea for a couch gaming set up but my research hasn't turned up anything.

The idea is to use technology similar to hyperspeed by logitech to allow a selection of peripherals to transmit data to the pc.

A hyperspeed hub so to speak - that way I could use a non wireless keyboard and a non wireless mouse wirelessly.

There would also need to be a way to supply power - a good battery, but also passthrough charging would be crucial.

Does anything like this exist?

I could also potentially use a hyperspeed wireless keyboard with a usb port to plug in a wired mouse. But seems that is fairly uncommon

26 Comments
2022/09/17
20:04 UTC

3

Is The Corsair K63 Lapboard Comfortable For Arms

I’ve been wanting to get one but I’m worried that it won’t be comfortable for my arms. And are there any other cons? Thanks in advance!

2 Comments
2022/06/22
16:17 UTC

3

Steam Link on Android TV with Xbox 360 wireless controllers

Hi,

Wanted to share my setup since I think it's quite cheap way to get a nice Steam Link experience. So the case is that I have a relatively cheap 65" Android TV. Then I had a Microsoft Wireless Receiver for Xbox 360 controllers and 4 controllers, that I bought some years ago to be used with an HTPC. These controllers are (at least used to be) cheap since people are upgrading to newer consoles. I just bought 2 consoles with 2 controllers included in each. Not sure how difficult it is to find the wireless receiver these days.

So, I connected the receiver to my Android TV's USB port and was surprised that the TV supported it. Installed Steam Link from Play store and now I have a 4 player couch setup. At least "Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl" was very playable with all 4 controllers.

0 Comments
2022/04/23
07:35 UTC

2

Wing Breakers Review - An Aerial Mario Kart? (Video)

0 Comments
2022/03/08
19:32 UTC

1

What's the best streaming device?

I'd like to get something cheap in my living room to stream my PC games to, most likely with Steam Link. I've used Steam Link to other devices and I love it, just need a way to get it in the living room. I have gigabit Ethernet so that's not a concern. My TV is 4k- it's a smartTV, but unfortunately a Roku.

Raspberry Pi's seem crazy expensive and hard to find these days. I see plenty of cheap Android boxes ranging from $30-80 on Amazon and AliExpress. They claim to be 4k, but I wonder:

  • Can they handle Steam Link? I know some of these boxes have issues with certificates and can't get the proper versions of some apps like Netflix and HBO.
  • are they really gigabit Ethernet and 4k output? Are there any catches there
  • I plan on using a Dualshock 4 or Xbox Series controller. They both have horrific lag when used wirelessly on my android phone, though not on PC or wired on Android. Is this an Android thing, does my LG v60 just suck? Will I run into this on a cheap Android box?

I'm guessing that the NVIDIA shield, being designed for gaming and from a reputable brand, would not have any issues. But it's also $200. It's powerful enough to play it's own games when I only need it to stream.

Any recommendations on what to get? Is the ShieldTV worth it?

0 Comments
2022/02/25
21:05 UTC

5

REQUEST = List of online coop games for 2 PCs or 2 Nintendo Switches

Hey guys!

Me and my wife just happen to have 2 gaming pcs, 2 Nintendo Switches, and a big TV that we wanna hook the devices using an HDMI switch that splits the signal the same way a split-screen would work.

We are planning to put use to them and play all the good online coop games, where we can complete a campaign together, similar to that of halo or nobody saves the world.

We are aware of Nucleuscoop, eventually, that was what we were looking for but since not all games are supported we started making a list of online coop games.

So what is in your opinion are the must-haves for such a setup, please feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments.

Sorry if that already has been posted, just link me to the post and I shall delete the post.

Thanks for reading!

1 Comment
2022/02/09
11:00 UTC

4

PengoRoyale is now available on STEAM - For Free - Merry Christmas - Now go kick some friends!

It's been a long ride. First I shelved it because a global pandemic really made couch gaming impossible. Then RL just kept getting in the way of me finishing up the STEAM release. But it's finally ready for action.

https://preview.redd.it/wk6lrsoq4m681.png?width=460&format=png&auto=webp&s=bc945ae4845fef5f2f5f390dc58748e4c13dea8c

I've released PengoRoyale for free for ever on STEAM. Think of it as a cool Christmas Present from some guy you don't even know. Just play it, stream it, tell people about and most of all have a happy holiday!

Raw Gameplay Footage

So please check it out and if you get a chance follow me on twitter (@joewilcoxdev) or even head over to my site AssetPackGames and see what else I have brewing.

0 Comments
2021/12/20
03:07 UTC

3

Desktop/tv in the same room, looking for budget suggestions

Hey all

I used to run my gaming laptop behind the TV for occasional couch gaming but it's really starting to show its age. I'd like to run everything from my main PC but there's of course a bit of distance

SO my question is this: Any budget recommendations for the easiest/smoothest setup? One of my main use cases will be playing sim racing so minimal lag is ideal. I currently have long enough HDMI to run across the floor but I'd prefer something permanent and with the least amount of 'setup' possible. Reaching behind the PC and TV to plug in the cable, among other things, is enough of a hassle that it's a deterrent for me. Here have been my ideas:

1: Run an extra long HDMI around the living room, keep the USB stuff local to the pc and just deal with that part, maybe add an HDMI switcher?I've also got a PS4 that lives on my desk I'd like to have the option of running on the big tv as well

2: steam link/nvidia shield type dealio

-too much lag added? Cat5 would be easier to run around the room though, and I already have one.

3: KVM? This is a familiar concept to me but not sure which to go with. Reverse?

Thanks all, sorry if this has been answered before but I did some digging in this forum and didn't see anything exactly like my situation.

7 Comments
2021/11/25
18:49 UTC

0 Comments
2021/10/16
22:31 UTC

3

PC location

Just wondering where people put there PC while using it? I have a nice NZXT case in black so it doesn’t look bad under the TV (LG OLED65).

10 Comments
2021/10/11
01:24 UTC

5

Finally coming back to my roots of couch gaming, advice wanted!

Hi all!

after years of playing games at a desk, it's time to come back to the comfiest form of gaming, on the couch.

Few things about my set up:

Desk

  • Samsung CRG9 monitor (5120x1440)
  • 2080ti and 3900x, both overclocked
  • Connected directly to modem (fibre network)

Couch

  • Samsung Q80T 65inch, connected to PC via WIFI.

The TV says the response time is about 70ms, which might be bearable. I haven't played anything yet so I can't say how that would feel.

I have a xbox elite series 2 controller connected wirelessly to the PC, although it seems to drop connection when I sit with it on the couch. I haven't tried the bluetooth connection as I've ran into issues and kind of gave up at this point.

The main issues I'm seeking help for are:

1- How can I get the resolution to adjust when using Steam link on my TV? Are there other ways to do this?

2- I read in another post here that someone suggesting setting up a Windows profile to auto start into steam big picture mode. This will save you from using the controller as a mouse which might be difficult. What happens if I want to play games that are on other platforms besides Steam?

3- With the Xbox controller, I bought it secondhand and it came with this 'Xbox controller dongle for Windows'. I don't need this if I plan to use bluetooth right? I tried setting up the bluetooth without the dongle, but the controller wasn't being recognised.

4- There is an issue with sound. When I first tested the set up, no sound was coming through the TV. If I turned my headset on then sound works fine through the headset and no sound coming through the TV. This is expected. Though, if I have the headset off, there is still no sound through the TV.

5- Lastly, are there any other recommended apps or set up guides I should follow? I'm happy to get more hardware if necessary to make this a seamless set up!

Thank you so much for reading and for any help!

1 Comment
2021/07/03
13:17 UTC

2

Game Feedback for a couch game

Hi all,

I made a game which is designed to be played with multiple people in front of a single screen. On that screen the game is shown and the game is controlled from each players phone. Due to the pandemic I don't have the option to get playtesters to my place, but maybe you know some people to test it.

The aim of the game is to push the other players from the field. Everyone enters the next move and then they are executed.

Here is the link to the game: https://couch-sumo.theoi.de/

I hope someone can test with some people and give me feedback.

PS: The game should work best, when you are in the same WiFi.

0 Comments
2021/05/12
19:26 UTC

2

Ergonomic Workstation

0 Comments
2021/02/13
21:07 UTC

1

The Couch Console has a USB C plug on top. The USB C hub goes directly to the storage space where you can connect any external battery you have. We didn't include a battery because most of us already have external batteries we can use, and it would unnecessarily increase the cost of the product.

Self-balancing cupholder, snack holder, phone stand, charging dock, remote tray, storage pocket. All in a light, compact & modular pack https://the-couch-console.kckb.st/30ddf5d3

https://preview.redd.it/f267p71zqmf61.png?width=680&format=png&auto=webp&s=ddd453bca5c55c8ddaa4f86e1e0a82a6f0a175af

0 Comments
2021/02/05
09:39 UTC

2

First project of our three men team is out now on Steam! Check out Kraken Smash

https://reddit.com/link/l5ip8z/video/1zzki3drnpd61/player

The goal of Kraken Smash is pretty simple, really, just smash the ball on your opponent's court! The game is at its best when played with four players (during covid, yes, our business plan is flawless), while insulting your mate as he wiffs the easiest smash for the third time in a row, and then promise to marry her/him soon after an impossible save.

We're looking to improve for our next projects, so any feedback is very much welcome !

Check out the game on Steam

Solo demo version of the game can be found on itchio

0 Comments
2021/01/26
17:23 UTC

1

Horizon Chase Turbo Review

https://youtu.be/1BhLhGrFMqE

Horizon chase turbo offers Splitscreen co-op racing In a arcade minded gameworld

0 Comments
2021/01/18
18:31 UTC

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