A game room can boost your rental’s appeal, especially for families or groups. It gives people something to do during bad weather or quiet nights. If done right, it can be the thing that makes your listing stand out. Here’s how to build one that gets used, talked about, and mentioned in reviews.
1. Pick the Right Room or Area
You don’t need a large space to create a game room. A basement, loft, garage, or even a corner of the living room can work well. The key is that the area should feel separate enough so it doesn’t disturb guests who want to relax or sleep.
Make sure the space has enough electrical outlets and decent lighting, whether natural or soft overhead. If you want to keep noise down, a door or a divider can help. Even a small nook with the right setup can become a favorite spot.
2. Know Your Guests
Think about who usually stays at your rental. If families with kids are your main guests, focus on board games, video games, and enough space for active play. If you host groups of adults, consider adding a dartboard, poker table, or even a retro arcade machine. Couples might prefer a cozy setup with two-player games or something like foosball.
If you welcome all kinds of guests, pick a few options that cover different tastes but avoid trying to do everything. Focus on games and activities that are easy to maintain and suitable for a range of ages.
3. Add a TV or Projector
Most game rooms benefit from having a screen. It gives guests a way to play console games, stream movies or music, or enjoy digital trivia and card games. Mounting a TV on the wall saves space and lowers the chance of accidents.
Leave clear instructions nearby about how to turn the TV on, switch inputs, and use any remotes. This helps guests who might not be tech-savvy get right into the fun without frustration.
4. Include a Game Console
A basic gaming console like an Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch is enough. You don’t need the latest model, just something that works well and is simple to operate. Make sure it’s easy for guests to turn on and use, and preload a few popular games.
Avoid games that require constant Wi-Fi sign-ins or updates, which can frustrate guests. Choose games that are easy to jump into and fun for all skill levels, like Mario Kart or Minecraft.
5. Pick Furniture That Makes Sense
Don’t fill the space with bulky couches or oversized bean bags. A single comfortable sofa or loveseat is enough. Add a coffee table where guests can play board games, plus some stools or floor cushions for extra seating.
Keep the furniture flexible so the space can adjust to different group sizes. Using rugs helps define the area and reduces noise, which makes the room more inviting.
6. Add Board Games
Board games work great, but don’t overload the space with too many options. Stick to four to six good games that don’t take too long to learn or play. Games like Uno, Scrabble, Jenga, or Connect Four are easy for anyone to pick up.
Store the games neatly on a single shelf or in a cabinet so the room stays tidy. This way, guests can find what they want quickly without feeling overwhelmed.
7. Make It Kid-Friendly (If Need Be)
If families with kids stay at your rental, think about safety and ease of use. Avoid sharp edges or small pieces that can get lost or swallowed. Add a small table and chairs where kids can play puzzles or color, and keep a basket of soft toys handy.
Mount heavy items like shelves and TVs to the wall to prevent accidents. If your rental isn’t designed for kids, you can skip this step.
8. Think Lighting and Noise
Use soft lighting like lamps or LED strips to create a comfortable atmosphere. Avoid harsh overhead lights that can make the room feel less inviting.
Soundproofing isn’t required, but it can help if you want to keep noise from traveling. Thick curtains, rugs, and door stoppers absorb sound and help guests enjoy the space without bothering others.
9. Keep It Tidy and Low-Maintenance
Keep small items like dice, remotes, and chargers in labeled bins to avoid clutter. Hide or secure cables to prevent accidents. Adding a power strip with USB ports makes it easier for guests to charge devices without unplugging your setup.
Make cleanup easy by providing wipes, a trash bin, and a simple note asking guests to reset the room after use. This keeps the game room ready for the next visitors.
10. Mention It Clearly in Your Listing
Once your game room is ready, show it off with bright, wide-angle photos. Include pictures of the games and equipment so guests know what to expect.
Describe the space specifically in your listing, like “Game room with Xbox, Mario Kart, and foosball table” or “Board games for all ages and a 50-inch smart TV.” Clear descriptions help your listing appear in searches and set proper guest expectations.
Bonus: Add Extra Touches That Go a Long Way
Adding small extras can make your game room feel more personal. A mini fridge stocked with drinks or snacks, a scoreboard on the wall, or a Bluetooth speaker with a guest-friendly playlist all add value.
You can also include a guide to local arcades or game shops nearby. These touches show you put thought into the guest experience and make your rental feel welcoming.
Make Your Vacation Rental Stand Out with a Game Room
You don’t need a full arcade to make a game room work. Your goal is to give guests a place to gather and enjoy themselves. Start small with one console and a few games. See what guests use and add more from there.
And if you want to reach travelers who appreciate unique touches like this, Houfy is a great platform to list your rental. It lets you connect directly with guests and show off your space without the usual fees or restrictions. It’s a smart way to grow your bookings and build a strong rental reputation. List your property today!
