When Mom Says No to a PC, User Builds a Fully Cardboard "Gaming AMD Rig" That Actually Works

A Cardboard Dream: When Mom Says No to a PC, Go Full Cardboard for Genshin Impact

In a delightful twist on DIY enthusiasm, a Reddit user known as Zestyclose-Salad-290 has showcased an utterly unique "gaming PC AMD" build that’s almost entirely crafted from cardboard. While it won’t be running the latest AAA titles or even a nostalgic round of Doom, this ingenious creation manages to power up and even run the popular game Genshin Impact. This isn't just a PC case adorned with cardboard; it's a testament to creativity where the very essence of the machine is fashioned from paper pulp.

The Anatomy of an Artificial Rig

The user shared a compelling video detailing the construction process. It begins with a convincing depiction of a micro-ATX motherboard, complete with four RAM slots, two PCIe x1, and two PCIe x16 slots, a NVMe SSD connector, and what appears to be an AMD AM4 socket. The illusion is further enhanced by the installation of a fictional AMD miHoYo 5800GT processor, secured with actual screws onto a cardboard mounting bracket. Following this, a hefty 8TB PCIe 6.0 SSD, complete with a cardboard heatsink cover, and two 64GB DDR8 RAM modules featuring LED strips are added. A cardboard CPU cooler with a single fan is then affixed, connected to the motherboard, injecting a further layer of whimsical engineering. Even the cardboard graphics card boasts dual eight-pin power connectors, adding to the visual jest.

More Than Just a Pretty Facade

The chassis itself is a meticulously designed cardboard structure, large enough to house an impressive (albeit fake) 128TB hard drive and a monstrous 2400W power supply. With a flick of the power button, the fabricated rig springs to life: a cardboard fan spins, its RGB lighting glows, and the LEDs on the RAM modules illuminate. But the creator didn't stop there. In a stroke of pure genius, a functional vacuum cleaner is integrated into the front of the case, and a small cardboard display showcases Genshin Impact's splash screens. It’s a functional piece of art that blurs the lines between a prop and a plausible (if highly unconventional) computing device.

A Masterpiece of Resourceful Artistry

While the digital components are, of course, non-functional, the overall build is a remarkable display of imagination and dedication. YouTube searches reveal that cardboard PC cases aren't entirely new, but Zestyclose-Salad-290's creation stands out for its sheer appeal and the surprising functionality of its lighting and fan elements. As Joei Morales from Tom's Hardware humorously pointed out, the creator seemingly forgot to apply thermal paste to the fictional CPU – a minor oversight, considering the chip is made of paper. This project, born from a desire for a gaming PC when perhaps a real one wasn't an option, is a heartwarming and impressive achievement that proves creativity knows no bounds, especially when fueled by a passion for gaming and a good dose of humor.