WHEN we were younger, summer was usually a time to go outside and play with our pals from morning until afternoon. Nothing beats playing different outdoor games with different playmates. 

However, when the blazing heat of the Philippine sun makes simply being outside intolerable, it’s time to be creative and find indoor activities that are not only enjoyable but also help to combat the heat. 

Some of us believe that being restricted indoors will lead to boredom. In fact, it provides an opportunity to participate in a variety of indoor games that are not only enjoyable but also assist to reduce the discomfort of the hot weather. 

I mean, with the recent excessive heat, who would want to play outside? Finding sanctuary indoors becomes more than a pleasure; it is a necessity. In a land where temperatures are soaring and the air is laden with moisture. 

Traditional games

“Piko” is one of the most popular indoor games among Filipinos on hot summer days. Piko is a traditional Filipino street game in which players hop and skip across a grid placed on the floor. 

With its simple yet compelling gameplay, Piko is a pleasant way to spend the time while remaining active indoors. Piko’s rhythmic movements are a nice break from the dreary weather outside. 

“Sungka,” a traditional Filipino game, could possibly be an alternative. Sungka is played on a carved hardwood board with small shells or stones as tokens. It involves strategic thinking and careful planning. 

As players gather up and distribute tokens in a circular motion, the game takes on an intensity that belies its peaceful surroundings. 

With each measured move, the sweltering heat of the summer day disappears into the background, leaving only the exciting thrill of competition. 

Aside from these two games, other traditional street games include tagu-taguan, tumbang preso, and patintero. These games can also be played indoors, depending on the size of your home. 

Modern games 

Indoor gaming consoles, gaming computers/laptops, and mobile phones have become popular ways for Generation Z to escape the heat and boredom on a regular basis. 

Video games provide the younger generation with an endless universe of adventure and excitement, whether they are battling virtual adversaries in Mobile Legends or embarking on epic missions in Final Fantasy. 

Aside from this, PC games such as Valorant, Dota, and League of Legends remain popular among Generation Z. Not only can these activities assist to relieve the heat, but they also require students to think critically while playing. 

As gamers immerse themselves in digital landscapes full of enchantment and wonder, the stifling heat of the outer world fades away, replaced by the cool glow of a computer screen. 

Gamers must also remember to play in moderation and not let these games steal their sleep or harm their eyes as a result of prolonged screen time. 

From traditional diversions like Piko and Sungka to modern pursuits like video gaming, there are numerous ways to cool the heat while being occupied indoors. 

So, the next time the sun beats down mercilessly outdoors, remember that the genuine essence of summer is found not in the unbearable heat, but in the delight of shared experiences and cherished memories formed in the cool embrace of indoor activities.