Noble Chairs has been producing quality chairs for many years and has long held a steadfast position in the rankings of best gaming chairs. Like many manufacturers, Noble Chair has been involved in flashy color schemes over the years, but its recent line has returned to the Henry Ford style of design. There are hints of metal in there, but you get the idea.

This understated color scheme helps to set the chair apart from the traditional gamerspace. Taking its styling cues from racing seat styling, it's still a gaming chair, but the black color scheme ensures that you won't be treated like a crook if you inadvertently work in between gaming sessions.

Assembling any piece of furniture is a challenge, but when you combine hydraulic gas-lift cylinders, eye-popping springs, and lots of casters, you're asking for trouble (or at least "Final Destination"-style disaster). The great thing about the Noble Chair Epic Black Edition is that while it took a little longer to assemble (30 minutes), the glossy instructions were so clear, the parts so sturdy, and the process so refined that it never felt like an uphill battle.

I wouldn't go so far as to call it "fun," but it was probably the easiest piece of furniture I've ever done. There was a little blood when tightening the bolts, but that may have been my fault, and if you want a comfortable seat, you have to make a small sacrifice to the blood gods. Now I'm sitting on the lap of a Noble chair and it's hard to recall ever having a problem with its comfort.

Once assembled and rolled into place, it was time to test its comfort. It is firm, but in a good way. The lumbar pillow and head cushion, however, are soft and can be moved to where you want them. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a big chair. But it may be the same for you. ......

What makes the Epic Black Edition different from the Black Edition is the choice of materials used. The levers on the backrest are now made of metal, as are the buttons on the armrests. The armrests can be adjusted in height, rotated, slid back and forth, and moved inward if necessary.

The most decisive element here, however, is the main cover, which, despite its appearance, is not leather. If you want to save a little money, the $349 (£300) PU leather might be more to your liking.

The version I am looking at for review uses a new material for the cover: a hybrid of vinyl and PU leather. This material has ultra-fine pores and is highly breathable. It is not sticky, although you should probably wear pants if that is a concern. ...... This material is soft to the touch and has a powdery, dry finish. It has a pleasant texture and doesn't feel like leather, but not too far off.

The Noble Chair Epic Black Edition is an excellent chair with a great range of motion, easy setup, and surprisingly comfortable seating. It is a little more expensive than the average quality gaming chair, but the materials are sturdy, easy to clean, and very comfortable. If you can afford to treat your butt and back, this is the best way to go. Magnificent.