13-06-2025
MTN Shift Gaming Experience kicks off at Rosebank Mall with National Esports Tournaments
Rosebank Mall was buzzing with excitement from 23 to 25 May as it played host to the 2025 MTN Shift Gaming Experience, a vibrant showcase of local gaming talent and community spirit.
The event, brought to life by Hyprop and MTN, turned the popular shopping destination into a lively arena for players and spectators alike.
Read more: Esports brand launches tournaments at high schools
Families, students and avid gamers gathered to test their skills or cheer on their favourites as the national hunt for the country's best gamer rolled into town. The tournament featured fast-paced action in EAFC 25, with virtual footballers pulling off impressive moves and clutch goals to the delight of onlookers.
One of the highlights was the launch of the MTN Beat Saber Challenge, a virtual reality rhythm game that had players slicing through beats with laser-like precision. The high-energy battles drew plenty of applause and created a fun, inclusive vibe.
Also read: Ford South Africa has launched its next Esports sim-racing competition
Gaming stations were spread across the mall, with tournaments in Fortnite, Minecraft, GT7, Tekken and more keeping the excitement going. Even typing was turned into a spectator sport during the quirky Keyboard Rebuild Race, where lightning-fast fingers were on full display.
Although the Rosebank leg is over, the tournament is far from finished. The Shift Gaming Experience continues its journey to eight Hyprop shopping centres across the country, leading up to a national finale at Canal Walk in Cape Town from September 17 to 21. With R50 000 in prizes up for grabs, the stakes are high.
For a few unforgettable days, Rosebank Mall became the heart of local esports, and many can't wait for it to return.
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