For as long as you can remember, you have loved everything about video games. While you really enjoy your PS4 and can’t wait for the new Xbox Series X to come out, you also love playing games on your PC—especially when you can get on a server and play with some of your buddies.

For gamers who want to take their favorite pastime to the next level, check out the following tips:

1. Eliminate Annoying Lag Times

There’s nothing more frustrating than to be in the middle of an intense new level on your PC, only to have the game lag. In many cases, this annoying situation is the result of latency issues. If you are wondering “What is latency anyway?”, it’s the amount of time it takes for one device to respond to another. In general, the lower the latency, the better the gaming experience will be. If the latency is too high, you will notice those frustrating lag times or sluggish responses when you play. In general, good latency is about 50ms—or less if you can get it. Using an Ethernet cable, making sure all updates are current, and closing out all other programs should help to improve your latency.

2. Download Steam

For years, if you wanted to play a new game, you had to purchase a physical copy of it in a case. To really up your gaming experience, consider downloading Steam onto your PC. This online gaming platform offers a big selection of games, including Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption II and many others. You can also take advantage of the Steam gaming community where you can meet fellow gamers and play multiplayer games together.  

3. Get a Decent Desk

If you spend a lot of time on your PC, you likely already know the importance of a comfortable chair. But don’t forget about your desk. A proper gaming desk will help you maintain a healthy posture and will also prevent back pain. As a bonus, being comfortable while playing should lead to an improvement in your skills and scores. Look for one that can be raised and lowered and is large enough to hold your expensive PC and related equipment.

4. Accessories Matter

Once you have the ideal gaming desk, chair and PC, save up some additional money for the best accessories on the market. Pro gamers typically never use a generic mouse and keyboard, so invest in accessories that are built specifically for gamers. For example, you can’t go wrong with a Razer gaming mouse that is extremely responsive and available in wired-in and wireless options. A specialized gaming mouse should make your gaming much more accurate. While you are at it, buy a high quality pair of headphones that will allow you to enjoy your game to the fullest while drowning out background noise.

These Tips Can Really Up Your Game

There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking the time to make your computer as quick and responsive as possible, or in investing in the equipment and platform you need to be the best gamer you can be. By following these tips and maybe finding a few more of your own, you will transform your video game time from mediocre to magnificent.