Darshin Naidoo describes his journey to becoming a MTG coach and tabletop gaming influencer.
Darshin Naidoo first discovered trading card games, also known as TCGs, when he was around eight or nine years old, after watching Yu-Gi-Oh! on SABC2. “I didn’t know it was a real card game until my mum bought me cards. Fast forward about six years, I found out about a local game store called the Unseen Shop, about 40 minutes from my house, and got hooked on the Pokémon TCG, which led me to where I am now in the trading card world.”
He continues to collect and play TCGs to honour a promise he made to his mum, who spent her hard-earned money buying him cards and sending him to compete at events: that he would make something of this hobby. “Here I am now, a professional Magic: The Gathering coach and a tabletop game influencer,” he says.
When asked what he enjoys about collecting, playing and coaching, Naidoo does not hesitate. “The thing I love most is the TCG community, and the rivalries and friendships you make along the way. Some people may think that only happens in anime or TV shows, but if you’ve ever competed in a TCG tournament, or you’ve been in the scene for a while, you’ll understand. There’s nothing like the banter and the memories you make, and the memorable trade or tournament match. These experiences stick with you.”
Naidoo’s favourite card is Nexus of Fate from Magic: The Gathering’s Core Set 2019 (M19). “It was a card I lost to so many times while learning the game that it actually forced me to become a better player,” he says.
Growing Community
Alex Irwin of Solarpop, the distributors of Magic: The Gathering in South Africa, says they’ve seen growth in both fans and attendance at leagues and trading card gaming events. “Trading card game events are growing because they offer real-world connection and a common interest that leads to strong community,” she says. “We’re seeing more families, more newcomers, and bigger turnouts than ever before.”
Latest Release
Lorwyn: Eclipsed, the latest Magic: The Gathering release, reimagines the beloved plane through a different lens, blending shadowed folklore with powerful new mechanics and breathtaking card art. As part of Magic’s Universes Beyond series, it brings a fresh take to the game’s expanding universe, with cards designed for both collectors and competitive play. Available at hobby stores nationwide.
For more info follow @solarpopsouthafrica
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