April 24 – April 26
Rosebank Mall Kicks Off MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2026
The highly anticipated MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2026 has officially begun, with Rosebank Mall hosting the opening leg from 24–26 April. As the first stop in this nationwide esports tour, the event sets the tone for months of competitive gaming action across South Africa.
Gamers and fans gathered at the popular Johannesburg shopping destination to compete in top titles, including EA Sports FC 26 and Beat Saber. The three-day in-centre event followed an online qualifier, giving participants multiple pathways to secure their spot in the competition.
Beyond the main tournaments, attendees experienced a vibrant gaming atmosphere with additional activities such as fighting game showdowns featuring Brawlhalla, Tekken 8, and Street Fighter 6. Casual gamers also had access to free-play stations and interactive zones, making it an inclusive event for all skill levels.
As the opening venue, Rosebank Mall played a key role in launching the 2026 edition of the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience, which will travel to multiple malls before culminating in the national finals later this year.
With strong participation and an electric atmosphere, the Rosebank stop proved that South Africa’s gaming community is more energized than ever—setting the stage for an exciting esports season ahead.
