But, what about the gaming platform itself?
Short throw projection systems may offer the best picture quality for today's graphics. They're ideal for small rooms, give you plenty of screen space for exploration, and they last a long time. Projectors are also much more affordable than you think. Amazon reviews are a good place to start or take a quick peek at Outdoor Movie HQ for their guide to some of the best short throw projectors.
What is a Short Throw Projector?
In general, short throw projectors have shorter focal lengths. It's all about the type of lens used in this type of projection system. Depending on the model, the manufacturer either installs a high-quality lens or chipset that corrects the image geometrically or pre-warps it to neutralize the keystoning used by wide angle lenses that tilt away from the viewing surface. This allows you to place the projector closer to the screen without diminishing picture quality or experiencing screen over-bleed.
Since many of today's games don't require a dedicated system for access or play, you're no longer confined to traditional console/TV setups. Why not experience your favorite game larger-than-life and in true color?
Choosing a short throw projector allows you to overcome some of the obstacles of using a classic projection system in the home.
Benefits of Short Throw Projectors for Gaming
There was a time when a projection system was the only way to get a satisfying gaming experience on a big screen. These days, television technology and the size of TV screens has improved over the years. No home feels complete without a wide-screen theater system dominating the living or family room.
However, projectors have come a long way in that time as well, and they still provide a superior gaming environment. That's especially true with the advances in short throw technology and affordability. The best systems offer wireless access; energy-saving LED technology, full HD resolution and 3D, and VGA, MHL, HDMI, and USB interfaces. Many also have built-in speakers with crystal clear sound. Input lag time, which can be annoying when you're waiting for a game to load, can be reduced to as little as 16ms.
With a short throw projector, there's no longer an issue with having adequate space to set up your projector. The right model can fill a 100-inch screen from a distance of as little as 1.5 meters. All you really need to get started is a low table and a bare, white wall. If you're gaming in your room at home, dorm room, or you have a smaller apartment, a short throw projector will fit right in. Add-in the portability factor, and you have a gaming platform that moves wherever you want to play, upstairs, downstairs, at a friend's home, or even outdoors, if you get a high-res system with a high lumen count and good contrast. Try doing that with your TV.
They're also very affordable, much less expensive than the average gaming console. The average short throw unit will cost less than $500; there are even some very good models available for around $200. The overall price will go up a little if you buy a light-reflecting screen to go with it. What is the latest price of a flat screen TV with a 72-inch screen?
There are a few drawbacks to consider before you go out and buy a short throw projector. A big one is fan noise. This can be a deal-breaker for some people, especially in close quarters, and it can take up to 30 seconds for the fan motor to stop after you power the system down. The good news is, there are some very high-quality headphones that will reduce the amount of background noise or cancel it altogether.
Then, there's stability. If you're in an environment where small children or pets are running around, there's a chance of your projector getting bumped or knocked over. Not a problem for all, but something to consider when it comes to set up.
How to Use a Projection System for Gaming
Gaming is all about the experience. With the popular games of today, playing with friends in a fully immersive environment becomes life. It's a great form of escapism from school or work that can be highly social even when you're gaming at home in your room, thanks to interactive gaming and telecommunications.
However, gaming with a projection system really comes to life when you're able to enjoy multiplayer games on split-screen mode that gives each player the equivalent of their own 32-inch TV screen on one surface. Add some external speakers or surround sound, and you've got a gaming environment that brings the whole experience to life.
In order to benefit from the capabilities of a short throw projector for gaming, you need to consider the throw ratio. This is the distance of the projector from the screen in relation to screen size. For a 10 x 10 foot space, a throw ratio of 4:3 will allow you to project from as little as 18 inches away from the viewing surface without losing picture sharpness or quality. There are a number of calculators online to help determine the right ratio for your preferred gaming environment.
Picture brightness and clarity are determined by resolution and lumen output in relation to ambient light, noise, and contrast. Basically, the higher the lumens, the brighter the picture. Since most gaming takes place indoors, controlling light in the playing environment is as simple as flipping a switch and installing blackout curtains. Purchasing a system with a 1000-lumen output should be sufficient. For rooms with more ambient light sources or outdoor gaming, you might need up to 3000 lumens.
Final Thoughts
Whether purchasing for yourself or the gamer in your life, the right short-throw projector can make a big difference in how you see and interact with your favorite RPG universe. Our goal is to point you toward the best equipment for your viewing needs. Putting it to the test in real and virtual worlds is up to you.