SALM TEAM 
For many, Comic Con Africa is an annual pop culture pilgrimage. It’s a colourful melting pot of creatives, collectors, gamers, and lovers of all things pop culture. This year, Solarpop will be bringing fans the best of tabletop gaming, toy and lifestyle culture to the convention.
Unplug Yourself
At the heart of the action is the Unplug Yourself area — a buzzing hub on the main convention floor filled with long tables where attendees can play tabletop games. In a world where we’re constantly connected, Unplug Yourself invites people to slow down and connect over board games. Whether you’re a Catan contender, a Ticket to Ride traveller, a Star Wars enthusiast or simply curious about what makes modern boardgames so compelling, there’s something for every taste, age and attention span.
With a massive boardgame library and friendly guides on hand to teach players the ropes, it’s a chance to explore new games and meet other fans. The Scarlet & Violet Academy will be there for anyone who wants to try their hand at Pokémon, learn how the trading card game works and be guided by experts.
Adam Prevo’st, spokesperson for Unplug Yourself, explains that games offer an opportunity to put aside worries and have fun. “People arrive at the tables a little hesitant, we’ve seen it especially with first time players. The dice rolls, the adventure begins and, as the game progresses, the players, who don’t know each other, start to share jokes and poke fun. It’s amazing to watch a group of strangers connect. Some even walk away as friends.”
Enricoh Alfonzo – gaming enthusiast and influencer has been an avid follower of Comic Con for years. Like many other fans, he arrives at the convention in full cosplay regalia, to mix and mingle with others dressed as their favourite fantasy character. He enjoys gathering around a table to play games, whether at home with friends or on a bigger platform. “The clatter of dice, the shuffle of cards, the rising tension of a well-played move – tabletop gaming is where old-school storytelling meets modern-day play. At events like Comic Con Africa, games become a shared language that brings geeks, families and strangers together around a board,” he explains.
KidsCon
The excitement ramps up in the KidsCon area. Sweet-toothed adventurers can refuel at the Slush Puppie Bar and explore the various icy flavours. Then there’s the Dr Squish station, where kids and parents can make their very own squish balls —choosing colours, fillings, and textures to customise their squish exactly how they like it. It’s messy, sensory, imaginative fun that taps into everything kids love: personalisation, instant gratification, and the joy of making something magical with their own hands. Inspired by the global YouTube sensation and enjoyed for its tactile creativity, the Dr Squish range lets children (and their grown-ups) dive into the playful world of slimy science.
Comic Con Africa is where imagination comes to life. From strategic showdowns at the board game tables to giggles of discovery at KidsCon, it’s about moments that people will remember long after the convention ends.
Comic Con Africa is happening 28 to 31 August 2025 at JHB Expo Centre.
For more info follow @solarpopgoplay
Diana Kinyanjui 
