1: Decide Early on Your Use and Theme
Since we're going to be building towards a specific goal, we need to keep that goal in mind right from day one to mitigate wastage and avoid issues. For example, if you're looking for a dedicated DOS gaming machine, you can either go the full retro-route for native compatibility, or utilize emulation for a more modern solution.
Source: Pixabay
In the case of the former, modern PC components and operating systems will be a dead end. For the latter, you’ll want to be sure you’re using an OS like Windows 10 over Apple’s offerings for the best possible support. Similarly, if you’re creating something like a modern online casino machine, you need to understand where to draw the hardware and software line. Most of the games on online casinos like Buffalo Blitz and Blue Wizard have low requirements in terms of graphics, and thrive off the inclusion of simple, easy-to-use dynamics, so installing a powerful graphics card would be a waste.
2: Work on Input and Display
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time on your new machine, then getting as accurate or as comfortable an experience as possible is going to be a must. Consider a retro emulation system as an example. For these, playing on a keyboard and mouse is going to drag the experience down.
On the other hand, older controllers like the N64 pad aren’t built with ergonomics in mind, so utilizing a modern controller like a DS4 could be a better choice. At the same time, you’re also going to want to make sure you always have USB ports for a keyboard and mouse available for general operation.
The display is also a big concern which is often overlooked. It might be tempting to skimp out on a cheap LCD, but these can be problematic. With poor latency compared to older CRTs, such solutions can make older games feel sluggish, so they're not always the best choice. Of course, CRTs are heavy and bulky, so the trade-off is up to you.
Source: Pexels
3: Isolate or Share
For convenience, you might be tempted to plug your machine into a network. The problem is that open systems can introduce confounding issues such as required updates and malware attacks. Isolating a system offline can make transferring files via USB more complex, but it can also pay dividends in terms of maintaining a system's operations and settings. Sitting down to play only to be hit with different controls or a forced update is a mood-killer, so, again, choices need to be weighed carefully.
Our final piece of advice would be to check online resources to find guides if you have a particularly unique or esoteric build in mind. There’s an enormous community of modders out there who have accomplished some amazing things, and they’re often willing to share their advice with fellow enthusiasts. Good luck, and no matter what, be sure to install Doom.