Reagile Gaming Interactions is bringing the thrill of PlayStation and Xbox gaming to the doorstep of Soshanguve townships.
The start-up is installing coin-operated gaming cabinets in local tuck shops, making gaming accessible to youth and creating income opportunities for SMEs.
Each cabinet is fitted with modern consoles and offers a pay-per-play system, allowing players to enjoy their favourite games for just R5.
Founder Brandon Mashaba grew up in Soshanguve with a deep love for gaming but lacked the financial means to own a PlayStation.
“I realised there were so many kids just like me, who loved games but couldn’t afford them. That’s when I decided to build something from the ground up that could bring the experience to them,” Mashaba told Vutivi Business.
“These cabinets now allow kids to experience quality gaming at their nearest Kota shop or tuck shop. We also saw a need for a positive form of entertainment,” he said.
Mashaba, in partnership with small businesses in the community install the gaming units in accessible locations.
“We partner with local tuck shops and kota shops to place our gaming cabinets there, giving kids who do not own gaming consoles the chance to enjoy high-quality gaming and eSports for just the cost of a coin,” he said.
Mashaba also explained that the impact is felt by more than just the businesses.
“It helps my business grow, and it keeps kids busy in a fun and safe way. It also helps the shop owners make extra money. The kids love it. Most of them tell me it’s the best thing around, especially since they only need R5 to play,” said Mashaba.
Buhle Masango, who runs Buhle Ice cream bar in Soshanguve Block H, said the gaming unit impacted her daily business and customer traffic.
“I now have an influx of new customers, and it’s a win-win situation. Customers come for the game and also buy ice cream,” Masango said.
Masango said the shop has been even busier than usual due to the winter school holidays.
“What’s even more encouraging is that it’s not just kids, sometimes parents drop by, and they end up spending more time and money here while their kids are entertained and parents are also able to drop off their kids and fetch them later,” she said.
Masango also praised the simplicity of the partnership with Reagile Gaming and encouraged other small businesses to consider similar collaborations.
“The agreement is straightforward, we go 50-50, and the gaming cabinet brings in extra income without much hassle. I’d encourage other small shop owners to get involved because through such partnerships, you get to grow as a business and broaden your mind as a person,” adds Masango.
zanele@vutivibusiness.co.za
