Top 20 Things From The 90s That Don't Exist Anymore

The 90s were a time of technological innovation and cultural change. From the rise of the internet to the introduction of new food and beverage trends, the 90s marked a significant shift in the way we lived our lives. However, as we look back on this iconic decade, we can't help but notice the disappearance of some staples that once defined the era. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore some of the top 20 things from the 90s that don't exist anymore.

The Rise and Fall of Dial-Up Modems and Butterfinger BBs

Remember the days of dial-up modems and the iconic Butterfinger BBs? The screeching sound of the modem connecting to the internet and the bite-sized balls of Butterfingers that were easy to pop in your mouth? These were staples of the 90s that have since disappeared, leaving behind a wave of nostalgia for a simpler time.

The internet has come a long way since the 90s, with wireless internet and broadband now providing fast and easily accessible connectivity for billions. As for the Butterfinger BBs, despite their popularity, they were discontinued in 2006, leaving fans craving the unique texture and peanut buttery flavor that once defined the snack.

The End of Encarta Encyclopedia and the Minidisc Players

Before the rise of Wikipedia, there was Encarta Encyclopedia, a computer-based encyclopedia launched in 1993 that contained thousands of informative articles, videos, pictures, and even trivia games. However, the rise of online encyclopedias ultimately led to Encarta's downfall, and Microsoft ceased its publishing in 2009.

Another 90s relic that has disappeared is the minidisc player, envisioned as the next big thing to replace cassette tapes. Despite its popularity in Japan, record labels didn't take to the format quickly, and by the time MP3 players became available, the minidisc players were on their way out.

The Clear Drinks Trend and the Decline of Pogs and CRT Monitors

The 90s saw a trend of clear drinks, with Coors creating Zima, a clear malt beverage intended as an alternative to beer. However, despite marketing efforts, the product didn't find much success, leading to its discontinuation in North America in 2008.

On the entertainment front, pogs, also known as milk caps, were a popular playground game in the early 90s, but widespread bans in schools led to a decline in their popularity. As for technology, CRT monitors, once a common sight on desks, have been phased out in favor of LCD, OLED, and plasma monitors.

The Decline of Gaming Magazines and the Y2K Panic

Gaming magazines were a staple for 90s gamers, providing detailed articles on upcoming games, walkthroughs, cheat codes, and reviews. However, the rise of Internet journalism made the old monthly issue model obsolete, leading to the decline of gaming magazines.

As the 90s came to a close, the Y2K panic gripped the world, with computer experts warning of potential chaos due to the representation of years using only the last two digits. The fear of an imminent apocalypse led to widespread panic and stockpiling of food and supplies, but as it turned out, the world stepped into the new millennium with minimal issues.

The End of AIM, Netscape Navigator, and Video Rental Stores

AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), once the leading messaging service in North America, ceased operations in December 2017, unable to keep up with ever-evolving technology. Netscape Navigator, the dominant web browser of the 90s, also met its downfall with the rise of Internet Explorer, Chrome, Firefox, and other competing browsers.

Finally, the iconic video rental stores, such as Hollywood Video and Blockbuster, saw a decline as streaming services became more prominent. While some may fondly remember the weekly trips to these stores, the rise of Netflix and other streaming platforms led to their eventual demise.

As we reminisce about the top 20 things from the 90s that don't exist anymore, it's clear that the decade left behind a legacy of innovation and change. While some staples have disappeared, they remain a nostalgic reminder of a time that has shaped the way we live today.

In conclusion, the 90s were a decade of transition, where old gave way to new, and the world was forever changed. As we move forward into the future, it's important to remember the iconic staples of the 90s and the impact they had on shaping the world we live in today. So, let's raise a toast to the 90s, a decade that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.