The internet doesn’t work at the internet cafés.
Patrons don’t mind, as few enter seeking to browse the web. These cafés are instead electronic gaming rooms, with the look and sound of small casinos. Behind blacked-out windows, visitors are buzzed in and greeted by arrays of colorful digital games.
Security guards man the front doors at many, their guns visible as they wand customers with metal detectors or pat them down. Smoking is permitted in backrooms, and some businesses offer complimentary snacks and raffles. Music is a constant. Managers transact from behind counters and plexiglass barriers, collecting cash (no cards) and disbursing payouts as security monitors capture scenes from connecting rooms…