Planet rAge: The Ultimate Geek Playground Returns

BY MUFARO MHARIWA
Nov 6
3 min read

From 5–7 December 2025, the rooftop of Fourways Mall will become South Africa’s ultimate destination for gaming, tech, and digital culture. Level 8, the mall’s sleek covered rooftop, will transform into Planet rAge: New Orbit; a three-day mega event celebrating everything from video gaming and Esports to creative arts, smart tech, and geek culture.

As one fan perfectly described it, rAge is “South Africa’s legendary playground of pixels, power-ups, and possibilities.”

For three epic days, visitors can dive into the worlds of PC, mobile and console gaming, VR, cosplay, AI, creative tech, computer hardware and more. This year promises a mix of returning fan favourites, like the massive BYOC LAN Arena and cosplay contests, alongside brand-new experiences designed to level up the fun.

What to Expect at rAge 2025

Step onto the expo floor and enter a crafted universe of fandom. The BYOC LAN Arena, South Africa’s largest 24/7 LAN, will once again draw hundreds of gamers ready to play through the weekend. Nearby, cosplay fans can either take to the stage or simply enjoy the stunning costumes on display.

The ever-popular Artist Alley also returns with 60 exhibitors showcasing original art, comics, prints and handmade collectibles; a treasure trove for fans and collectors alike. Just next door, the Home_Coded Zone celebrates local indie developers, featuring homegrown video, board, and tabletop games.

Among the highlights is ToTheMoon!, a groundbreaking board game developed by a Joburg couple. Combining physical gameplay with an NFC-enabled app, it lets players test their luck as crypto investors. Each roll of the dice triggers real-time updates in the app; adjusting virtual portfolios in Bitcoin, Ethereum or Dogecoin. It’s fast, interactive, and surprisingly educational, blending gaming and investing in a uniquely South African way.

Star Wars fans are in for a treat. ILUM Relix returns with its hands-on lightsaber-building experience, now offering even more customisation options. At their stand in Star Wars Alley, alongside the South African 501st Legion, fans can assemble their own sabers, guided by costumed experts. You can build one for free and record the experience, or buy your creation to take home.

For thrill seekers, Disney+ will debut its Alien: Earth activation; a fully immersive pop-up inspired by the hit series. Step into a crashed spaceship wreckage and experience spine-tingling effects that bring the world of Alien to life.

Local studio Sigma is set to debut OMEN, a horror-action title set on a cursed island ruled by monsters. Players take on the role of Prince Omen, wielding supernatural powers and facing enemies that adapt to their fighting style. To play the beta, visitors will need to pick up the OMEN comic book, which doubles as both a prequel and the game’s access key. It’s an inventive fusion of storytelling and gameplay that perfectly fits rAge’s tech-meets-creativity spirit.

And as always, rAge will bring its signature surprises. Expect everything from live glass-blowing demonstrations to Rage Rooms where visitors can let loose and smash objects in a safe, cathartic space. The organisers are teasing several unrevealed zones and pop-up experiences, ensuring this year’s event is packed with unexpected moments.

Whether you’re into Pokémon, One Piece, LEGO, anime, AI, tabletop gaming, or just exploring for the first time, Planet rAge welcomes everyone: families, hardcore gamers, collectors, and curious newcomers alike.