How to Turn Your Basement Into a Family Game Room
Published on 6 April 2022 in Blog by
Last updated on August 14th, 2025 at 03:36 pm
Basements differ from home to home. Some keep their holiday decorations stored in bins; others have the luxury of adding an extra bedroom or bathroom. For many, they are a catch-all space rather than a destination you want to spend a lot of time in. So why not turn it into a game room? This will not only allow you to maximize square footage but also to dedicate an area to fun where everyone can feel like a kid again. Read on for our top basement family game room ideas.7 Steps to Convert Your Basement into a Game Room
1. Create a Budget
Before you start picking out games or furniture, it is important to set a clear budget. Start by estimating the costs of renovating the basement, whether you plan to give it a fresh coat of paint or hire a professional for a full-on basement remodelling. If you are handy, you might be able to save with a DIY approach, but don’t forget to factor in tools and materials. When planning purchases after the main renovation is complete, prioritize seating and storage before upgrading with specialty game equipment. To save some money at this stage, consider upcycling old furniture or sourcing secondhand games.2. Pick Your Favourite Games
There are plenty of game rooms that have pool tables that never get used. Make a list with your family and decide what kind of games you want to include in the space, maybe a pinball machine or a ping pong table. Measure out the room you have and see what kind of space you are working with. For example, as a general rule, it’s best to have three feet around foosball and air hockey tables, making it easy to play. If you love video games, choose a few consoles with multiplayer options and pick ones you can all enjoy.3. Have a Spot for Everything
An organizational system simplifies setting up and putting away your games. If you love board games, have plenty of shelving so they can rest comfortably, and you can pick out your favourite one easily. A TV cabinet should be able to house all your gaming consoles without issue and make it easy to hook up wires as needed. If you don’t have to set up the Nintendo Wii every time you want to use it, you may be surprised by how much use it gets. Finally, keep some smaller storage bins handy for extra pieces or cables.4. Create an Atmosphere
Basement family game room ideas are easier to develop when you have the whole gang involved. Decide on a colour scheme or think outside the box! If you love the Avengers, a full Marvel theme can be completed with movie posters, themed blankets, and pillows. If you are going for a simpler look, it doesn’t have to be boring. Pick a neutral shade like grey and one or two pops of colour to help you bring out other areas in the room. When buying furniture, make sure it’s comfy and multipurpose. A large ottoman is great for lounging and can act as a snack table. Keep lighting soft and consider installing a dimmer switch or different colour lighting tracks to set the mood.
5. Install Soundproofing
Anyone who has had a family game night knows it can get pretty loud! While that’s no problem when the whole family is involved, it can be distracting when your kids play Mario Kart or your partner enjoys Clue with their friends. If your basement is unfinished, it’s relatively easy to put in soundproofing insulation. Focus on the ceiling where most of the sound will travel. If your walls are finished, you can purchase sound-absorbing foam pads online that stick to walls and ceilings easily.6. Make It a Multipurpose Hangout
To ensure you get the most out of your basement game room, consider making it more than just a space for game nights. Your basement should bring the entire family together for all kinds of fun, from home movie nights to quiet reading time.
Consider adding a mini home theatre setup with a projector and cozy bean bags. You can even install a snack bar or a popcorn machine to further elevate the movie night experience! Depending on how you like to relax, you may also want to add a reading nook or set up a bar cart for adult-only nights in.
7. Consider the Seasons
Many basements tend to run hot in the summer and cold in the winter, so considering local weather is key to ensuring your space is comfortable year-round. A portable dehumidifier can help prevent moisture build-up in the summer, while a space heater will keep your game room warm in the winter months. As an alternative to a portable heater, consider installing an electric fireplace to create a cozy and warm atmosphere in the room. Regardless of the season, good ventilation is essential—so install fans or additional vents if necessary.Why Convert Your Basement into a Family Game Room?
Turning your basement into a game room is undeniably fun, but it is also a smart way to increase your home’s value and enhance its.Boosting Resale Value
A finished basement is an excellent way to increase a home’s livable square footage. Plus, a thoughtfully designed game or family room in the basement can help your property stand out in the competitive market. Families love the idea of a ready-made entertainment area, and even buyers without kids will appreciate a multipurpose room that can be adapted to their needs. To maximize your home’s resale value, invest in built-in storage and keep the design neutral to appeal to more buyers.Homebuying Tips for Game Room Potential
If you are in the market for a new home with a future game room of your dreams, look out for these features:
- Ceiling height. High ceilings make basements feel more airy and are a must for activities like ping pong, arcade games, or ceiling-mounted projectors.
- Existing lighting and utilities. A basement with accessible outlets, ample lighting, and plumbing rough-ins will reduce the cost and effort of renovation, providing you with more flexibility in how this part of your home can be used.
- Dry, well-ventilated space. A dry basement is crucial for the safety and comfort of your electronics and your home. When visiting a potential new residence, look for signs of moisture, musty odours, or inadequate airflow.
- Finished or partially finished basements. A finished basement will be easier to turn into a game room or kids’ playroom, with significantly lower renovation costs.
- Open layouts. Open-concept basements offer the flexibility to create distinct gaming zones or shared hangout areas without requiring major structural changes.
- Additional perks. Ask your realtor to keep an eye out for homes with soundproofing, walkout basements, or built-in entertainment systems. These features can make a future game room even more valuable.