MRSP: ~$40 for 51056 model. Higher end versions are more expensive. Check them out on Amazon to compare pricing.
For many people, comfort is an important part of gaming. As more people are tricking out their gamerooms as video games become more mainstream, gaming chairs are everywhere. One company, X-Rocker has been making seats tailored for gamers who want to integrate a comfortable, movable seat with built in speakers for immersive game play. It's also handy for enjoying movies, TV shows, and music.
My X Rocker chair (model number 51056) is a small rocker and a couple years old at this point. The company also sells upright chairs that resemble modern computer chairs and recliners. The Mesh Video Rocker can fold in half for handy storage and is prime for small rooms without a lot of room for permanent furniture (think collage dorm) or for rooms that serve more than just for gaming. It also makes for a handy extra chair.
For the full experience, the chair must be plugged into an AC adapter. Sound from game consoles comes from plugging either the White and Red RCA cords into the sound port adapter or via a wire into a headphone output from a TV, PC or handheld device. Higher end and newer model chairs do feature HDMI support with the help of a converter for devices lacking RCA.
Multiple rockers can be linked together to share the same output for cohesive multiplayer experience. This feature can also be handy to make a temporary movie theater experience by lining up chairs in front of a TV or projector.
I have found this particular model to be quite sufficient for my use. The speakers are loud and clear and are at a great location on either side to provide great stereo sound. The rocking design is fun to play with and can provide seamless adjustments when I want to change my viewing angle just by adjusting my balance. However, this might not be the chair of choice for individuals who have a hard time standing up from the ground.
I will note that the audio adapters can be a little finicky and may require some adjustment to get perfect sound out of. I've had success playing both console and handheld games, watching movies, and listening to music from the chair. It is comfy and enjoyable although it is not designed to take extreme wear and tear so be gentle with it and keep it clean. After two years, it has kept me happy and done very well. I recommend it for gamers on a budget.
