Once upon a time, a computer shop was the go-to place for surfing the web. For about PHP 10 to 20 an hour, we would update our Friendster profiles, play online games, and download songs for however long our pocket money would let us. Some computer shops even stayed open 24/7 and offered printing or photocopying services on the side. If you’re among those who’ve witnessed the glory days of computer shops, the stories shared by these Pinoy Redditors will take you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Webcams

Although we have the luxury of built-in front cameras for our gadgets, webcams are a staple in internet cafes. Some use it to talk better with their loved ones overseas or take a couple of ~*aesthetic*~ selfies for their socials. The only catch is these webcams have the resolution of a fog. Part of the aesthetic, right?

Games galore

Copies of online games were already expensive back then, so internet cafes were a haven for Pinoy gamers. They can play anything from Defense of the Ancients (DOTA) and Counter-Strike to iDate and Y8 games. Some cybercafe users go as far as staying until the wee hours to play games!

Those little backseat drivers

Computer shop peeps know the struggle of having random kids watching their every move. They’ll go as far as demanding you to play unheard-of online games or give unsolicited advice on improving your gaming skills — just like a backseat driver. These kids boss you around like they’re paying for your time there. The audacity!

Strict computer shop owners

Once you see the internet cafe owner stand from their coveted seat and walk in your direction, either you’re doing something inappropriate, or it’s time to let the next customer have their moment. Back then, cybercafe owners manually tracked the internet usage of their customers, and rumors say nobody could escape their watchful eyes. 

That signature ~*smell*~

Most Pinoy-coded internet cafes have a distinct scent you can smell even from a mile away. The smell is a mix of the scents of rowdy kids, corporate slaves, and those who seem like they rolled right out of bed. It’s not for everyone, but it’s all part of the charm as computer shops welcome people from all walks of life. 

Songs that made our childhoods

Whether you grew up with Kamikazes’s infectious “Narda” or unofficial chart-topper “Dota o Ako” by Aikee and Vanessa, no one can deny that computer shops popularized countless bangers you’re unaware of. The music is so loud it feels like you’re in a club that just happens to be surrounded by computers.

The never-ending trash-talking

There are no dull moments inside computer shops. One minute, users are casually playing games; the next, a brawl has erupted over too much trash-talking. But the best part? You’ll see these people playing with each other again in no time. 

Unexpected friendships

Whatever hilarious or downright embarrassing memories you have of computer shops, these quaint establishments have been the backdrop for Pinoys to turn random interactions into lifelong friendships. While these once-bustling, unassuming computer shops may not be as vibrant as they used to be, they will forever have a cherished corner in the hearts of many Pinoys.

Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube, to be the first to know about the latest news and coolest trends!