Introduction

I recently attended my very first Comic Con, and I must say, it was an absolutely amazing experience! Initially, I wasn't sure what to expect, but the event exceeded my wildest dreams. The convention was divided into two floors, with the first floor dedicated to artists, designers, comic fans, and more. I was blown away by the incredible local talent on display; there were so many amazing artists from all over the country. If you saw something you liked, you even had the opportunity to purchase it right there on the spot!

The second floor transported me into the thrilling world of gaming and eSports, featuring numerous gaming companies from South Africa. It felt like stepping into a massive, interactive arcade, offering various gaming opportunities such as Formula 1 simulators, Fifa tournaments, and so much more.

The entire event was incredibly enjoyable, and I met so many interesting people and organizations that truly enriched the experience. In the following sections of my blog, I'll be sharing a summary of my favorite companies that I encountered during my time at Comic Con, providing you with an insight into the remarkable offerings available at this fantastic event.

The People and Companies I met at Comic Con

Eduvos

I had the pleasure of encountering Eduvos, one of South Africa's largest independent private higher education institutions. Boasting an impressive 12 campuses scattered throughout the country, Eduvos is making waves in the academic world. One particularly exciting development is the launch of their very own eSports teams at several of these campuses. Embracing the ever-expanding realm of competitive gaming, Eduvos clearly recognizes the importance of eSports in today's society. By cultivating talent and providing a platform for students to excel in this burgeoning industry, Eduvos is not only staying ahead of the curve but also paving the way for future generations of South African gamers.

Levante

I came across Levante, an innovative service that breathes new life into your favorite Converse shoes by allowing you to customize them. Levante offers a fantastic range of classic sneakers for you to choose from and inject your personal touch. The customization options are limitless, with the ability to add unique typography, intricate doodle art, eye-catching patterns, and a wide array of artwork that spans from delicate floral designs to quirky characters.
Needless to say, I couldn't resist ordering my very own pair of custom Converse shoes, and I'm filled with anticipation as I eagerly await their arrival.

GUNPLA

I discovered a store that sells Gundam model kits. I was intrigued by the hobby and decided to purchase a beginner-friendly building set. The website offers a range of model kits, tools, paints, and supplies for both new and experienced builders. They even have a variety of GUNPLA kits, including Entry Grade, High Grade, Real Grade, Master Grade, and Perfect Grade, each with their own unique features and levels of detail. I'm excited to start building my kit and exploring this new hobby. If you're interested in Gundam model kits, check out their website for all your building needs.

Mac Clements

I had the delightful experience of encountering Mac Clements, an incredibly talented artist whose unique artwork immediately caught my eye at his booth. Mac is a full-time multistyle artist, a former architect, and a multidisciplinary visual arts specialist. His diverse background and expertise are evident in the intricate and captivating pieces he creates. If you're curious to see his stunning artwork and stay updated on his latest projects, I highly recommend checking out his Instagram page. The best part? Mac is also available for commissions, so you can bring his amazing talent into your own space or collaborate on a custom piece. Don't miss the opportunity to support and appreciate this phenomenal artist!

LEGO - CapeLUG

CapeLUG is an organization for adults who share a passion for LEGO. This community unites LEGO enthusiasts, providing them with a platform to connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects. If you're a LEGO fan, you absolutely must visit their website. CapeLUG caters to all levels of LEGO builders, from casual hobbyists to serious collectors, and offers a supportive environment to indulge in your love for these iconic building blocks. Don't hesitate to check them out and become a part of this vibrant and creative community!

ATK eSports

ATK Esports is making a name for itself not just in the gaming world, but also at events like Comic Con Cape Town. I got to try out their Formula 1 racing sim and it was super fun. If you're looking for a professional gaming experience, be sure to check out ATK's Arena in Cape Town, which houses premium gaming equipment and the latest games. You can find more information about ATK Esports and their offerings by visiting their website here.

Gaming and Chill Lounge

It was awesome meeting the team behind Gaming and Chill Lounge, a Cape Town-based company that offers a unique gaming experience. Their services include parties, events, merchandise, and gaming sofas, all designed to provide gamers with a comfortable and entertaining environment. Whether you're looking to host a gaming party or just want to relax and play some games, Gaming and Chill Lounge has got you covered. Be sure to check out their Instagram profile to see what they're all about, and don't miss the opportunity to experience their awesome gaming setup for yourself!

Goat Gaming

I stumbled upon an exclusive gaming lounge called Goat Gaming. Based in Dunvegan, Edenvale, South Africa.
Goat Gaming offers Playstation Console Gaming with a wide variety of games to choose from. What's more, their gaming equipment also includes virtual reality on PSVR as well as Racing Simulators. If you're a gaming enthusiast looking for a fun and exciting place to hang out with friends, Goat Gaming is definitely worth checking out. You can visit their website for more information.

Unplugyourself

I had the opportunity to learn about Unplugyourself, which specializes in organizing tabletop games and tournaments for enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a fan of tabletop games such as Dungeons and Dragons, you'll definitely want to check out their website. Not only do they host engaging events and tournaments, but they also foster a thriving community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about tabletop gaming. So, don't miss out on the chance to unplug from the digital world and immerse yourself in the captivating realm of tabletop gaming with Unplugyourself!

Conclusion

My experience at Comic Con was nothing short of phenomenal, and I find myself eagerly anticipating its return next year. The atmosphere, the talented artists, and the immersive gaming world all combined to create an event that left a lasting impression on me. As a testament to the impact this event had, I am even considering getting my own Mandalorian outfit to fully embrace the spirit of Comic Con. If you haven't had the chance to attend, I highly recommend checking it out in the future – who knows, we might just bump into each other in our Mandalorian gear!

This is the way!