By Sitha Maliwa:
South Africa’s premier gaming tournament is back with a bang. The 2025 MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience kicks off this weekend, promising a thrilling five-month journey of competitive gameplay, technology showcases, and family-friendly entertainment.
With over R250,000 in cash and prizes on offer, the tournament combines online qualifiers with live in-mall events across eight of the country’s leading shopping centres. The competition culminates in a national final at Canal Walk in Cape Town, taking place from 17 to 21 September.
This year, two main tournaments will headline the event. The popular EAFC 25™ National Football Tournament returns, offering a R50,000 prize to the top player. Joining it is the MTN Beat Saber Challenge, a high-energy virtual reality (VR) rhythm game making its debut in the SHIFT lineup. Winners of this VR challenge stand a chance to take home a top-of-the-line gaming PC worth R50,000.
“The SHIFT Gaming Experience is more than a tournament,” said Christie Stanbridge, Brand and Campaigns Marketing Manager at Hyprop. “It’s a celebration of gaming culture in South Africa – a space where players, fans, and families can connect, compete and share their passion.”
The tournament roadshow will travel to major centres in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town, with online qualifiers hosted on the ACGL gaming platform and in-person play taking place during weekend events.
Tournament Schedule:
Rosebank Mall (23–25 May) – Online Qualifier: 18 May
Somerset Mall (30 May–1 June) – Online Qualifier: 25 May
Woodlands Mall (13–16 June) – Online Qualifier: 7 June
The Glen (27–29 June) – Online Qualifier: 22 June
Table Bay Mall (18–20 July) – Online Qualifier: 13 July
Clearwater Mall (8–10 August) – Online Qualifier: 3 August
Capegate Mall (5–7 September) – Online Qualifier: 31 August
Canal Walk – National Finals (17–21 September) – Final Qualifier: 7 September
In addition to the flagship tournaments, visitors can enjoy open-play zones and mini-competitions in titles such as Tekken, Street Fighter 6, Rocket League, Minecraft, Call of Duty: Mobile, and more. Each mall event also features the Toyota Gaming Engine SuperSprint, PC gaming activations powered by PCBuilder, and daily giveaways.
Fridays at each venue are dedicated to school and junior players, with special Minecraft build challenges, youth-only EAFC 25™ tournaments, and Rocket League face-offs. These events aim to promote digital literacy and responsible gaming among younger participants.
“Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just curious about the scene, there’s something for everyone,” said Jason Probert, General Manager for Digital Services at MTN South Africa. “We’re proud to support a platform where local talent can shine and where technology brings people together.” Gamers of all levels are encouraged to enter the tournament. Registrations are now open at https://acgl.gg. Entry is free, and prizes are awarded at every stage – including gift cards, gaming merchandise, and tech giveaways. –@NewsSA_Online
Please like and follow us on our social media platforms, links below: