This might not shock you to learn, but one of our favorite parts of gaming is being able to play classic games for free. We created this website for that very reason, and our passion over the years has never waned. And with that in mind, we created this simple article to detail what you'll need to create a free gaming system, with some examples of what you can do with it.
You Don’t Need Expensive Hardware
There is a tendency among the many to assume that getting involved in any type of free gaming is expensive. This is usually due to how the accompanying assumption that "free games" refers to the latest AAA free to play games like Apex Legends or Let it Die. However there are other ways to access free gaming without such demanding system requirements.
Firstly, DOS gaming results in system requirements that are infinitely lower. At a base level, all you’ll need to get started with the games on our site is a system capable of running the DOS emulator DOSBox, as playing games natively with a DOS system isn't usually worth the trouble. This means Windows 9X, an SVGA card or chip, and around a 1GHz processor to be safe. If you don't already own a computer with this much power, picking one up can be done for well under $100. In some cases, people can even be willing to literally give such contemporarily underpowered machines away for nothing.
Going over this level of power can also help, if you do wish to extend your library into the more modern and possibly vaster range of F2P games and game types. Still humble, F2P games like Blizzard's Hearthstone might need a graphics card to run properly. Equally popular are online casino games, and slot machines in particular tend to have low demands. If you're someone who chooses to pick up some free spins to satisfy your F2P gaming desires, an integrated graphics chip will usually suffice.
Other Important Considerations
When looking at making a dedicated gaming system, the processor and graphics power of the device is only part of the equation. Before getting started, you're also going to have to consider the realities of installation, input, and display.
For some users, the sort of systems used for DOS gaming are usually tucked away in a non-prime location, operating outside of the bounds of a corded internet, and without wireless capabilities. This means that, for updates and system changes to these, you're going to have to turn to other avenues of transference. Simple USB connections are perfect in this regard, though initial setup can prove tricky.
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To counter this problem, we'd recommend the first-time setup of a computer, especially if coming from a format, be performed with an active internet connection. This way you can use programs like Driver Booster or DriverPack Solution to manage the often otherwise frustrating driver installation process. Once this step is completed, the computer can be safely moved.
In terms of input, the best choice is often to use a modern controller. Through DOXBox, controllers can be mapped per game to specific keyboard controls through the Ctrl+F1 shortcut. While optional, this is usually a far more comfortable option for most games. It also gets around the finicky native controller support when running old games with newer input devices.
For display, you have two possible routes, modern LCD or classic CRT. It may be tempting to simply connect your computer up to a TV for more comfortable play. Though this can work, the display lag from modern LCD TVs can render gameplay untenable. Whatever you go with, ensure a low display latency for a more authentic and enjoyable experience.
Image Source: Pixabay
This should give you some idea of the elements needed to create a free gaming system, but go in understanding that every system is different. Remember that Google is your friend and that no matter what issue you have, chances are somebody else has faced and overcome it. Most importantly, whether creating this system for yourself or another, you know where to turn for the best games.
