>>11152730require is vague. there was a time where most houses with computers had them in a set up similar to OP just because it was comfortable, but you could have made do with something tinier or just plopped it on the kitchen counter or something. so need or require is relative. its just a better experience having that. I remember going to my friends houses, or girlfriends houses, they would always have some sort of large setup. way better than having it all on the carpet or the floor.
and mine was always half full of toys are figures along side my electronics. it just works.
frankly even if all someone has is a laptop i think they should have a nice space thats fun to use it in but thats just me. thats the appeal of these sorts of desk setups is you can decorate them and make the space your own and its like a cave or cockpit with your shit there. place to put your food or whatever if you multitask.
superior experience of daily computer using compared to a desk which is 4 rectangles and a slab/plank. if youre going to be sitting somewhere for hours a day the more pleasant it is the better. im going to sleep soon hopefully my point makes more sense now.