Every serious PC builder knows that a successful gaming setup isn’t just about the machine itself, but its surroundings, as well. In other words, a gaming PC is only as good as its battlestation.
In this segment, we talk to the creators behind some of our favorite battlestations documented across the internet. Ranging from modest, single-desk setups to larger, room-scale affairs, the battlestations we feature in every installment are intended not only to wow and amuse, but also to inspire all the other battlestation-builders out there who can appreciate the pleasures of a good gaming environment.
We scoured the internet for a suitable candidate for our inaugural segment, and one bright orange battlestation in particular caught our attention — one that was themed after a familiar little robot.
Interview subject: u/mrjosi94 on Reddit
Who are you, and what do you do?
I’m Johannes from Norway, and I’m 25 years old. I just finished my bachelor’s degree in Automation and Electronics Engineering. In my spare time, I usually play games on my battlestation with friends.
What was the creative vision behind this battlestation? What sort of look and feel were you going for?
My vision behind the battlestation was having a white setup with some kind of popping color, and I also wanted to give it a bit of a unique look. That’s why I landed on the color scheme that I did. I later decided to make it a BB-8-themed setup — that’s why I added some silver to the build. [BB-8 is a robot featured in the Star Wars franchise.]
What were the main points of inspiration for this battlestation?
The main inspiration for this would be setup shows on YouTube by channels like Techsource and randomfrankp, which I have watched a lot.
How long did it take you to design everything and put it together?
I’ve been building PCs for about three years, so it’s been a journey. Some of the gear has been with me the whole way. But I started on my current setup when I moved to my current place last July.
Please walk through a step-by-step process of designing and assembling the battlestation.
It started with the PC. I’ve wanted to build a water-cooled PC for some time, but as a student, it was too expensive. Last summer, I got a job that paid really well, so I decided to use some of the money to build a new PC.
While I was waiting for all the components I knew I wanted to launch, I started looking for parts and accessories that matched the BB-8 color scheme.
The desk is from IKEA — the classic Alex drawers paired with a Linnmon tabletop. I made the dividers from some 2x2s that I sawed to length and painted orange.
Other custom work includes the painted USB-hub and the decals I made on the speakers to make them look a bit like BB-8.
The last step was cable management. I used the IKEA SIGNUM rack and zip ties for that.
What are your PC’s specs?
Are there any other future improvements you’d like to make?
Currently, the next thing I’m looking for is some decoration above the setup. I’d also like to improve the cable management by drilling some holes for the speaker cables and PC cables.
This interview was edited for length and clarity.