Whether you’re chasing championship glory or simply love the thrill of competitive gaming, Clearwater Mall is about to become the place to play.
From 31 July to 2 August 2026, the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience arrives at the mall’s Centre Court, bringing together competitive players, casual gamers and esports fans for three action-packed days of tournaments, free-play gaming and exciting prizes.
As South Africa’s only nationwide mall-based gaming series, the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience continues to make competitive gaming more accessible by transforming familiar shopping centres into vibrant esports arenas where anyone can take part, spectate and experience tournament gaming up close.
A Gateway to South Africa’s Biggest Gaming Tournament
The MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience has built its reputation by giving gamers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete in a structured tournament environment.
Rather than limiting esports to dedicated gaming venues, the nationwide series takes competitive gaming directly to communities across the country.
At Clearwater Mall, competitors will have multiple opportunities to qualify for larger national competitions while enjoying a weekend filled with interactive gaming experiences.
EA FC 26™ Takes Centre Stage
Football gaming fans will have their sights firmly set on the EA FC 26™ tournament.
The journey begins with an online qualifier on 25 July, where players will compete for a place in the Clearwater Mall Final.
The top four online competitors will automatically secure their spots in the Mall Final, while additional players will have another opportunity to qualify through the in-centre heats during the event weekend.
The stakes are high.
The Clearwater Mall champion will receive:
- A R2,500 Clearwater Mall Gift Card
- Qualification for the National Football Final
- A chance to compete for a share of the R50,000 national prize pool
Second-place competitors will earn a R1,500 gift card, while third place will receive a R1,000 gift card.
More Games, More Competitions
The excitement doesn’t stop with football.
Visitors can also participate in or watch tournaments featuring several popular gaming titles, including:
- Beat Saber
- Brawlhalla
- Tekken
- Street Fighter 6
The event will also feature:
- A Keyboard Rebuild Race
- A dedicated PC Gaming Zone
- Free-play gaming stations where visitors can enjoy casual matches throughout the weekend
Across the entire MTN SHIFT Gaming series, players will compete for a combined prize pool of R350,000, making it one of South Africa’s biggest gaming competitions.
Bringing Esports to Everyone
One of the defining features of the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience is its accessibility.
Whether visitors are seasoned esports competitors, weekend gamers or simply curious about tournament gaming, the event creates an inclusive environment where spectators and players alike can experience the growing world of competitive gaming.
By hosting events inside shopping malls across the country, MTN SHIFT continues to introduce more South Africans to esports while creating opportunities for emerging talent to showcase their skills.
Event Details
Online Qualifier: 25 July 2026
In-Centre Event: 31 July – 2 August 2026
Venue: Centre Court, Clearwater Mall
The MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience is brought to you by MTN and Hyprop, with all tournaments operated by ACGL.
Following Clearwater Mall, the nationwide tournament will continue at:
- CapeGate Shopping Centre
- Online Qualifier: 9 August 2026
- In-Centre Event: 14–16 August 2026
- Canal Walk Shopping Centre
- Online Qualifier: 16 August 2026
- In-Centre Event: 26–30 August 2026
Whether you’re aiming for the national finals, looking to test your skills against other gamers or simply hoping to enjoy a weekend immersed in gaming culture, Clearwater Mall is set to become the ultimate destination for players this winter.
