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Wednesday, 15 October 2025

Entertainment Updates: IN FOCUS: Are PC cafes making a comeback in Singapore?


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Once a staple of Singapore’s youth culture in the 2000s, PC cafes—or LAN shops—have largely disappeared, shrinking from over 100 outlets to just 15 licensed computer game centres today. Yet, they are now experiencing a quiet reinvention rather than extinction. Modern PC cafes are cleaner, more comfortable, and premium, featuring private gaming rooms, high-end equipment, and even bubble tea.

Industry veterans and new entrepreneurs are reshaping the scene. Titan GamingIgnite Gaming SG, and Elixir Esportshave turned traditional LAN shops into esports arenas, offering professional-grade setups, tournaments, and social experiences. For example, Elixir provides hospitality-style amenities—blankets, slippers, and drinks—while Titan and Ignite host leagues and sponsor esports teams. These operators aim to make gaming social, aspirational, and community-driven, not just a casual pastime.

Meanwhile, long-time players like Clique Gaming and Good Speed Game Cafe have diversified into board games, cuesports, and console gaming, evolving into multi-entertainment hubs. Clique now earns most of its revenue from pool and PlayStation setups, while Good Speed has transformed into a “community space” focused on human connection.

Experts note that Singapore’s scene lags behind gaming hotspots like South Korea, China, or Malaysia, where esports are nationally integrated. Still, Singapore’s rising interest in competitive gaming and government support for major esports events suggest potential for a revival.

Beyond gaming, PC cafes now serve as modern “third places”—safe, social environments where youths and even seniors can connect offline. As Redd+E’s Yip Ren Kai put it: “Devices may change, but the desire to connect, compete, and share experiences hasn’t.”

Opinion:

Lan shops experience was part of my childhood.

I think there will be a resurgence of this form of entertainment when my generation grows older.

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