Synopsis

Cast & Crew

Episodes

Reviews (5)

Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and mandatory lockdown in the Philippines, *Gameboys* is a groundbreaking and heartwarming love story that unfolds entirely through laptop screens and video calls. Teenage streamer Cairo is a self-proclaimed gaming nerd, cautious and guarded after being outed by a former friend and grappling with his father's recent death. His world is turned upside down when a charismatic new online rival, Gavreel, challenges him to a game and then boldly asks him out. What begins as a playful rivalry quickly deepens into a tender, slow-burn romance as the two navigate long-distance courtship, family secrets, mental health struggles, and the universal need for acceptance. Stunningly shot using iPhones, the series beautifully captures the awkwardness and thrill of falling in love in a digital age while tackling real-world issues like consent, grief, and the importance of chosen family. More than just a love story, *Gameboys* is a revolutionary and emotionally resonant portrait of resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to be vulnerable, even when the world feels isolated.

Ivan Andrew Payawal

Cast

Benjamin Tolentino

Cast

Jun Robles Lana

Cast

Perci Intalan

Cast

Alex Tomboc

Cast

Albert Michael Idioma

Cast

Elmer L. Gatchalian

Cast

Ash Malanum

Cast

Noel Mauricio

Cast

Garry Angeles

Cast

Kokoy de Santos

Cast

Elijah Canlas

Cast

E01

Gameboys Episode 1

Season 1 · May 22, 2020

~ min

E02

Gameboys Episode 2

Season 1 · Jun 03, 2020

~ min

E03

Gameboys Episode 3

Season 1 · Jun 12, 2020

~ min

E04

Gameboys Episode 4

Season 1 · Jun 19, 2020

~ min

E05

Gameboys Episode 5

Season 1 · Jun 26, 2020

~ min

E06

Gameboys Episode 6

Season 1 · Jul 03, 2020

~ min

E07

Gameboys Episode 7

Season 1 · Jul 10, 2020

~ min

E08

Gameboys Episode 8

Season 1 · Jul 17, 2020

~ min

E09

Gameboys Episode 9

Season 1 · Jul 24, 2020

~ min

E10

Gameboys Episode 10

Season 1 · Jul 31, 2020

~ min

E11

Gameboys Episode 11

Season 1 · Aug 23, 2020

~ min

E12

Gameboys Episode 12

Season 1 · Aug 30, 2020

~ min

E13

Gameboys Episode 13

Season 1 · Sep 13, 2020

~ min

7.6

out of 10

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1018

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146

gavreel_my_baby

March 2025

10/10

I am absolutely ruined! Gavreel and Cairo have the most beautiful love story I've ever seen. The way Gav says 'baby' and the soft looks they give each other through the screen made me scream into my pillow every single episode. That first kiss? Iconic. I've watched it 10 times. Pure magic!

consent_queen

January 2026

9/10

As a sociologist, I'm blown away by how *Gameboys* centers consent and emotional honesty. Gavreel constantly asks 'May I?' before any physical touch — it's refreshing and sets a new standard. The show also tackles mental health, grief, and the trauma of being outed with remarkable nuance. A little cheesy at times, but the messages are vital.

lens_and_light

September 2025

9/10

The cinematography is nothing short of revolutionary. Shot entirely on iPhones during a pandemic, the split-screen techniques, color grading, and creative use of digital interfaces are stunning. Every frame feels intentional — from the warm glow of Gavreel's room to Cairo's cluttered gaming setup. A masterclass in visual storytelling with minimalist resources.

logic_checks_out

November 2025

7/10

I appreciate the effort and the groundbreaking format, but the pacing is uneven. The jealousy subplot with Terrence felt forced and dragged on too long. Also, some of the dialogue is overly cheesy — 'Choke me daddy' was a cringe moment. Still, the core romance works, and the finale delivers an emotional payoff. Just wish it was tighter.

soundtrack_lover_ph

April 2025

10/10

The music in *Gameboys* is perfection. Every song — from 'Panalo Ka' to 'Isang Laro' — captures the emotion of each scene. The original Filipino tracks are so heartfelt and authentic. I still listen to the OST on repeat. The way the score swells during Gav and Cai's emotional video calls gives me chills. A feast for the ears!