“PUBSTOMPS”, as they’re known in the Dota 2 community, have been around since the early days of competitions. They’re a gathering of Dota 2 fans at a pub (originally) who could sit around, watch some Dota 2, with like-minded individuals. In South Africa, a number of attempts have been made to host our own “PUBSTOMPS,” and some have been a success. This year’s Dota 2 International, which boasts a $23 million prize pool, is aiming to be one of the largest viewed events in our esports history, so it makes sense to attempt a new style of viewing-party and Orena want to do it at select Nu Metro cinemas.
“Depending on the appetite of South African fans, Orena plans to stream the finals of the Dota 2 International into two Nu Metro Cinemas – Canal Walk in Cape Town, and Emperors Palace in Jozi. So, whomever you support, come support them with your mates, popcorn and slush/soda on a big screen, comfy seats and incredible sound. We will be sure to keep you posted on this event!”
They’re testing the waters right now, but the event is set to take place during the main event weekend which begins on the 7th of August. Of course, times aren’t very friendly, but I’ve been to a few movie marathons at cinemas and they’re extremely enjoyable. Orena initially announced that Emperor’s Palace would be the sole venue for the viewing party, but they are now reaching out to Cape Town to gauge whether the mountain-people would be interested in a party of their own at the Canal Walk Nu Metro. Staying awake wouldn’t be an issue as Orena have Red Bull as a partner meaning some energy for the night’s viewing.
Would you be down for a “PUBSTOMP” in either Cape Town or Johannesburg?
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Last Updated: August 2, 2017
Matthew Holliday
August 2, 2017 at 16:20
Friends of mine hosted a viewing for the finals at their work cinema, it was pretty awesome.
30ish like minded people hanging out watching sports. was a good evening.
A big cinema could be a bit less personal, but then again, the TI crowd itself is made up of randoms, so yeah, Id consider booking.
Its a long time to sit in a cinema though.
6 hours-ish of finals, does that mean the ticket price would be like, 4x the cost a movie ticket?
Thats also like 3+ trips to get popcorn and cream soda, my teeth will hate me afterwards.
Thats potentially like R400 to watch the finals.
When I could be watching with friends at home, with drinks and snacks and be allowed to smoke while watching.
Would be interesting if you could like, check in, if its an official pubstomp and get item drops from watching the game there.
Skyblue
August 2, 2017 at 17:16
And no booze, bugger that. I usually watch big Quake comps with some mates and a few drinks. How are you supposed to watch esports with mates sober?
Dresden
August 3, 2017 at 08:19
It’s the equivalent of watching a Super 15 finals or RWC finals in a cinema.
Without booze and some space or fresh air it’s just not going to work out.
Matthew Holliday
August 3, 2017 at 11:13
its like watching 3 super 15 finals. Finals night can go on for hours and hours, and ends at like 4am here
Skyblue
August 3, 2017 at 11:37
Agreed, the scheduled times are just not SA friendly. I’d rather be on a couch in my house chilling thx.
Matthew Holliday
August 3, 2017 at 11:10
Watching dota sober is like “such mechanics, much impressive, wow.”
Skyblue
August 3, 2017 at 11:35
Yeah, much more fun after a few drinks.
Skyblue
August 2, 2017 at 19:46
PUBSTOMP without a pub definitely doesn’t appeal to me.
Craig "CrAiGiSh" Dodd
August 3, 2017 at 08:03
Pass but hope it all works out for everyone that does want to attend.