Gamer Opens Nero’s Cyberspace Lounge to Revive Social Gaming

Jesse Parker, a 28-year-old entrepreneur, has launched Nero’s Cyberspace Lounge, a dedicated gaming facility in downtown Oroville, California. This venue aims to bring back the social aspect of gaming that has diminished in recent years. Open since October 30, 2025, the lounge invites anyone 18 and older to enjoy a relaxed environment focused on gaming and Japanese anime.

Parker, who identifies as a gamer and anime enthusiast, reflects on his journey from being a bullied child on the autism spectrum with ADHD to becoming a business owner. “It feels good,” he shared, acknowledging the challenges he faced in school. He hopes that his lounge will serve as a welcoming space for others who share similar experiences or are simply looking to connect through gaming.

Nero’s Cyberspace Lounge features a variety of gaming consoles, including classics like the Atari 2600 and the original Xbox, as well as a selection of modern games. The facility also boasts a large projection screen, comfortable seating, and a library of both video games and cult-classic films. Parker plans to expand the offerings to include additional consoles, such as the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch.

Reviving the Arcade Experience

Parker’s vision for the lounge stems from nostalgia for the early days of gaming, when arcades served as social hubs. He noted that the shift towards online gaming began around 2013, which diminished face-to-face interactions among players. “Nero’s is a space to mainly encourage the social aspect of gaming, to essentially return it to form,” he explained.

The lounge operates on a model designed to make gaming accessible. It offers a single-day pass for unlimited play at a cost of $20. Additionally, there are several membership options available: the one-month Player 1 Pack for $45, the three-month Player 2 Pack for $40 per month, and the six-month Respawn Pack for $35 per month.

Parker emphasizes that his lounge is an alcohol-free environment, aiming to create a relaxed atmosphere where gamers can socialize without the pressure of drinking or gambling. “It’s emotionally fulfilling to have the ability to provide space where people can come and safely hang out,” he said.

A Safe Space for Gamers

Having started gaming at the age of five with an original Xbox and a copy of “Halo,” Parker considers gaming not only a hobby but also a vital coping mechanism. He described how gaming provided him with an escape from bullying and helped him forge friendships with others who shared his passion. “It helped me find common ground with other people, even people I didn’t have anything else in common with,” he noted.

Beyond offering a gaming space, Parker hopes to educate the public about the positive aspects of gaming. He wishes to challenge the perception that gaming is merely a distraction or unhealthy obsession. “Gaming isn’t some scary, hairy monster. It really is a healthy outlet, especially in a social, interactive, fun environment,” he stated.

For more details about Nero’s Cyberspace Lounge, including operating hours and upcoming events, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581489682242.