The Big Bang Shop proudly made history this past month by hosting the Pokémon Special Event (SPE) on May 25–26, 2025, in the heart of Umhlanga Rocks, Durban. With over 150 players from across South Africa and a strong international presence, the event became the largest Pokémon SPE ever hosted in South Africa, cementing The Big Bang Shop’s place as a cornerstone of the region’s gaming and pop culture community.
This high-profile tournament brought together a vibrant and diverse crowd of competitors and enthusiasts spanning the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), Video Game Championships (VGC), and Pokémon GO formats. With participants flying in from as far afield as Europe, the Middle East, and neighboring African nations, the SPE wasn’t just a local milestone — it was a celebration of global Pokémon culture.
A Weekend of High Stakes, High Spirits, and Unforgettable Moments
Over the course of two action-packed days, the event transformed The Big Bang Shop and its surrounding spaces into a dynamic hub of competition, creativity, and connection.
Event Highlights Included:
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150+ players engaged in competitive play across all official Pokémon formats.
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A notable international delegation, adding a global flair and elevating the level of competition.
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Live-streamed feature matches and commentary, giving spectators and online fans a front-row seat to the action.
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A dedicated Community Zone, fostering fun, casual games and open trade sessions for players of all ages.
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A professional and welcoming event atmosphere, supported by experienced judges, event staff, and volunteers.
The event was run to official Play! Pokémon standards, offering players the opportunity to earn Championship Points (CP) on their path to the Pokémon World Championships. From top-tier Masters matches to heartfelt Junior games filled with excitement, the weekend captured the essence of what makes Pokémon a beloved global phenomenon.
A Vision for Community, Belonging, and Growth
For Zane Ramnundlall, founder and owner of The Big Bang Shop, the event was far more than just a tournament.
“This wasn’t just about competition,” Zane explains. “It was about creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for gamers of all backgrounds. We believe in the power of games to connect people, build friendships, and provide a place where you can be yourself. That’s the heart of The Big Bang Shop, and this SPE was the perfect example of that vision in action.”
From new players stepping into the scene for the first time, to seasoned veterans battling it out for top placements, the event showcased the depth, diversity, and passion of South Africa’s ever-growing Pokémon community.The weekend also served as a powerful reminder of how far the KwaZulu-Natal scene has come. What was once a small and scattered player base has, thanks to tireless community building, local league support, and the leadership of stores like The Big Bang Shop, blossomed into a thriving competitive environment worthy of global attention.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for South African Competitive Play
The success of the May 2025 SPE has ignited momentum for future events. With plans already in motion for expanded tournaments, workshops, and international partnerships, The Big Bang Shop aims to further elevate South Africa’s role in the global Pokémon circuit.
“We’ve only just begun,” says Zane. “The response from players, both local and international, was overwhelmingly positive. We proved that Durban can not only host, but excel at running world-class gaming events. Our community deserves this — and more.”
The Big Bang Shop extends heartfelt thanks to all players, spectators, judges, sponsors, and supporters who helped bring this event to life. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive, exciting, and empowered future for gaming in South Africa. Instagram | @thebigbangshop
Visit: www.thebigbangshop.co.
Visit: www.thebigbangshop.co.
The Big Bang Shop, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban