This past weekend, I stepped into a world I barely understood – flashing screens, cheering crowds, and the unmistakeable buzz of competition.
I was at the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience at Rosebank Mall with my son, an avid gamer. I expected a few kids and consoles. What I found was a full-blown cultural phenomenon.
Now in its latest edition, the SHIFT Gaming Experience has grown into South Africa’s biggest gaming tournament, drawing thousands of players and spectators to shopping centres across the country.
With over R250 000 in prizes and a national final set for September at Canal Walk, this is no longer a niche event, it’s a national showdown.
From football simulations to virtual reality rhythm games, the tournament offers something for everyone. Even if you don’t know your EAFC from your FPS, the energy is infectious. At the centre I visited, teens, parents, and friends were watching, playing, and cheering. It was busy, competitive, and loud.
The tournament spans eight Hyprop malls, with a mix of online qualifiers and in-person events. Each weekend features a packed schedule: football face-offs, VR challenges, fighting games, and even Minecraft builds for younger players.
The Beat Saber Challenge, a high-energy VR game, was a crowd favourite. I was hopeless, but the thrill of smashing targets (or flailing at them) was intoxicating.
What struck me most was the sense of community. From school tournaments to casual play zones, the event creates space for gamers of all ages and skill levels to connect.
“We’re creating spaces where South Africans can compete, connect and get rewarded for their passion,” says Jason Probert of MTN, which sees gaming as both a cultural movement and a smart investment.
And it shows. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious parent like me, there’s something captivating about this world. It’s fast, fun, and full of heart.
The SHIFT Gaming Experience runs through September, with additional events in Cape Town, and Pretoria.
If you’ve ever wondered what the fuss is about, this is your chance to find out.
No controller required.
🎮 MTN SHIFT GAMING EXPERIENCE 2025
Where South Africa’s gamers go to compete, connect and win.
🗓️ Tournament Schedule
- Somerset Mall: 30 May–1 June
- Woodlands: 13–16 June
- The Glen: 27–29 June
- Table Bay Mall: 18–20 July
- Clearwater Mall: 8–10 August
- Capegate Mall: 5–7 September
- Canal Walk (Finals): 17–21 September
🏆 What’s at Stake
- Over R250 000 in prizes
- EAFC 25™ National Champion: R50,000
- Beat Saber VR Challenge: Win a gaming PC worth R50,000
🎮 Games Featured
- EAFC 25™
- Beat Saber (VR)
- Tekken, Street Fighter 6, Rocket League
- Minecraft, Call of Duty: Mobile & more
👾 For All Ages
- Friday events for under-18s
- Minecraft builds, school tournaments & more
