After an exciting 2024 event that saw tens of thousands of gaming, tech, and pop culture fans come together for an unforgettable weekend, rAge is thrilled to announce its return to the Johannesburg Expo Centre (NASREC) from 5 – 7 December 2025.
The move to NASREC was a thrilling new chapter for rAge, offering a larger space to grow and better accommodate attendees, as well as create additional immersive experiences. The 2024 edition saw a vibrant mix of esports tournaments, hands-on gaming experiences, technology showcases, and the first-ever Afro Geek Playroom. Attendees embraced the new venue, and while there were many learnings, the stage is now set for a massively successful 2025 edition.
“Moving to a larger venue is always a fun challenge—kind of like starting a new game—figuring out where to place everything, how parking and food logistics work, and dealing with the unexpected. But we found our rhythm, and so did our fans, who showed up in force. NASREC has given us the space to expand without feeling overcrowded, and now that we’ve got one show under our belt, we’re ready to level up in 2025,” said Michael James, Project Director of rAge Expo.
“Johannesburg Expo Centre (NASREC) is an amazing home for rAge. The venue is an institution, and in a weird roundabout way, The Computer Faire at NASREC back in 1998 (or so) was one of the small stepping stones to what rAge is today. My friends and I used to visit the computer show armed with Commodore Amiga demos on 3.5-inch disks, and well… ‘repurposed’ any Amiga 500/2000 on the various stands to rather showcase groundbreaking tech demos instead.
“Fast forward to today, and rAge is consistently pushing boundaries with groundbreaking technology and captivating exhibits. It’s inspiring to see scholars competing in esports events and winning Minecraft tournaments—something I could only have dreamed about when I was at school! A massive thank you to everyone involved in the event, and I look forward to welcoming you back in 2025,” added James.
A Look Back at the Highlights of rAge 2024
The 2024 event was packed with unforgettable moments. Some of the industry’s biggest brands and gaming communities brought their A-game.
Monster Energy thrilled audiences with its high-energy presence and epic Call of Duty tournament. “rAge keeps moving from strength to strength every year, and 2024 was no different. Seeing all the gamers and cosplayers engage with our brand in a unique way is always amazing! But the true highlight for me was the COD tournament that saw crowds join in on the action to watch and cheer their teams on! It’s an expo that’s truly for the love of gaming and the culture!” said Jeann Steyn, Marketing Lead, Monster Energy.
Mettlestate delivered yet another powerhouse gaming experience. “rAge has always been an institution in the world of gaming in South Africa, and the excitement of rAge 2024 was epic. We’re looking forward to making it even bigger and better in 2025!” shared Barry Louzada, Managing Director, Mettlestate.
The NAG team had a big presence at rAge 2024 with an interactive showcase featuring the NAG 2024 Annual Edition magazine and a host of exciting experiences. “This year, NAG magazine will produce quarterly issues and release our award-winning annual 2025 edition at rAge 2025. See you there!” said Len Nery, Publisher and Managing Director, New Age Gaming.
Esports took centre stage with SAGES Africa’s Mzansi Esports Champions 2024, a milestone event for female gamers across the continent. “The tournament showcased exceptional talent, diversity, and inclusion, paving the way for a more equitable future in gaming,” said Désiré Koussawo, President of SAGES Africa.
For those passionate about African gaming, tech, and pop culture, the Afro Geek Playroom made its debut, celebrating the fusion of creativity and innovation. “Collaborating with rAge Expo to unveil the first-ever Afro Geek Playroom at the event was a dream come true for us as long-time fans of the expo,” commented Tapelo Zama, Managing Director, Afro Geek.
Education and esports also took a major step forward, with RGB Gaming bringing together over 30 schools to compete in tournaments, as well as hosting the first-ever HP Gaming Garage hackathon in South Africa. “Events like rAge 2025 demonstrate our country’s immense potential and enthusiasm for gaming. We’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement and look forward to many more exciting initiatives in the future,” shared Jaco Sauer, Co-Founder, RGB Gaming.
Leading global hardware brand MSI was back at rAge, showcasing its latest innovations. “The energy, the excitement, and the passion from the community are unmatched. We’re proud to showcase the very best of MSI, from cutting-edge innovations to budget-friendly powerhouses. So, no matter who you are, MSI has the perfect solution to elevate your game,” said Dwayne Wolmarans, Marketing Manager, MSI South Africa.
The ultimate playground for gamers continues to grow, and the team at Nexus Hub & Media is excited for what’s to come. “The ultimate playground for tech enthusiasts and geeks has found its new home and can only get bigger – looking forward to rAge 2025!” said Tex Hartog, CEO, Nexus Hub & Media.
Looking Ahead to rAge 2025
With a compelling drive to pioneer and innovate, and an ever-growing community, rAge 2025 promises to be another momentous gathering. The learnings from 2024 have paved the way for an event that will deliver even more meaningful community interactions and gaming culture moments that fans won’t want to miss.
Stay tuned for updates, exhibitor announcements, and ticket details as we gear up for the biggest gaming and tech event in South Africa!
#rAgeExpo2025
Johannesburg Expo Centre (NASREC)
5 – 7 December 2025
