OUDTSHOORN NEWS - Participants from various age groups and backgrounds are expected to take part in Oudtshoorn’s first community gaming tournament in a month’s time.
The event aims to bring together local gaming enthusiasts in a fun and interactive environment.
Oudtshoorn Courant recently spoke to the organisers of the tournament, Mxolisi Manata and Jason Stoffels. Both are passionate gamers who identified a need for a formal gaming platform in Oudtshoorn.
According to Manata, there are many gamers in the town who have never had the opportunity to participate in a proper organised tournament.
“Gaming brings people together in a fun yet competitive way, but it is also open to anyone who is interested and wants to learn the finer skills of becoming a gamer,” he said.
He added that the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive and that they expect a full hall for the tournament.
Stoffels explained that players will compete in the Fifa World Cup 2025 game during the event. “It is not difficult to play and is a highly competitive and enjoyable game to participate in.”
He said that Call of Duty is the organisers’ next focus, as it remains one of the most popular games played worldwide.
The two organisers say the prize money serves as an added incentive for gamers to enter, but the long-term vision is to see the tournament grow into a regular feature on Oudtshoorn’s social calendar.
They believe the initiative can also serve as a positive outlet for young people by keeping children constructively occupied and off the streets.
Manata encouraged residents to attend and experience the excitement of competitive gaming first-hand.
In addition to competitive matches, the day will offer entertainment and refreshments for all attendees.
Tournament details
The tournament will take place at the Thusong Centre in Bridgton at 10:00 on Saturday 30 May. Entry for participants is R100, while spectators can attend at a cost of R10.
Prize money of R500 and a trophy will be awarded to the winner. Second place will receive R300, while third place will take home R200.
What is gaming?
Gaming is the act of playing interactive, electronic or computer-based games, typically for entertainment, social interaction or competition. It involves using devices like consoles, PCs, or smartphones to engage in various genres. Gaming has grown into a massive global industry and social activity.
Games are played on specialised consoles (Xbox, PlayStation), PCs, smartphones, and virtual reality (VR) headsets.
Popular types include shooters (eg, Fortnite), multiplayer online battle arenas (eg, League of Legends), and simulations (eg, Fifa Culture). It is a social experience where users connect, communicate and form communities.
Beyond entertainment, it is used for stress relief, skill development and, for some, it becomes a career in competitive esports.
For more information, contact Mxolisi Manata on 073 659 0323
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