Retro gaming savior builds flood-proof fortress for priceless collection
Clint Basinger, the beloved creator behind the Lazy Game Reviewer (LGR) YouTube channel, faced a nightmare scenario last year when Hurricane Helena ravaged his North Carolina home. While thankfully escaping physical harm, Basinger’s extensive collection of vintage consoles, computers, and games – a cornerstone of his content and a significant piece of retro gaming history – suffered substantial damage. But rather than succumb to despair, Basinger has responded with a proactive and impressive solution: a purpose-built, flood-resistant “bunker” to safeguard his treasures.
From devastation to design: a collector's resilience
LGR’s collection wasn’t merely a hobby; it was the engine driving his unique brand of retro game analysis and commentary. The partial destruction of his home and the flooding of a rented storage facility where he housed a portion of his hardware threatened to derail his entire operation. He managed to salvage and restore between 75% and 85% of his collection, a testament to his dedication and swift action. However, the experience served as a stark wake-up call—and an unlikely catalyst for a major upgrade.
“Why not build a dedicated space?” he reportedly asked himself, envisioning a multi-functional structure that would eliminate the $900-a-month storage fees while also providing a secure haven for his collection and a robust workspace for his channel.
Engineering a retro sanctuary: the specs
The result is a remarkable feat of DIY engineering. With the assistance of contractors who had recently completed repairs on his damaged home, Basinger rapidly erected a structure that defies the elements. The bunker boasts a concrete base measuring 9x18 meters, towering walls reaching 3.5 meters high, and a sloped roof that adds further vertical space. Internal climate control systems maintain a stable temperature and humidity, protecting his valuable inventory from the ravages of both summer heat and winter cold. Beyond protection, the bunker is designed for optimal functionality: soundproofing ensures pristine recording quality, and underground cabling keeps electrical systems safe and secure. Even his home’s Wi-Fi signal reaches the space, although he’s considering adding a dedicated Ethernet connection for greater stability.
The interior space is still taking shape, with plans for shelving to display his collection like a meticulously curated library and an elevated “mini porch” serving as a relaxation and workspace area. Basinger admits the structure ended up being larger than initially anticipated, leaving him with a significant amount of central space yet to be utilized – a welcome problem for a collector whose retro holdings are perpetually expanding.
The story of LGR’s recovery and the construction of his retro bunker isn't just about one man's dedication to preserving gaming history; it’s a testament to the enduring power of passion and ingenuity in the face of adversity. His example serves as a reminder that even in a world increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters, there’s always room for innovation, resilience, and a well-organized collection of classic games.