You can feel it in the air—pixels popping, LEDs flashing, and gamers stretching their trigger fingers. This isn’t just another mall event. This is Northern Playcon, the heart-thumping, joystick-jamming, fandom-fueled centerpiece of SM Tech Fair 2025, and it’s taking over The Block Atrium at SM North EDSA from August 1 to 17.
And leading the charge? A showdown that’s got the entire esports community talking: the ultimate Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Showmatch—Team KOLs vs. NU Bulldogs. On one side, a roster of content kings and crowd faves like Yael of Sponge Cola, Horizon Kyler, and Aikee. On the other, the tournament-hardened warriors of National University’s finest. This isn’t just for bragging rights. This is entertainment, strategy, and pure adrenaline all rolled into one digital battlefield.
But that’s just the beginning. Whether you’re a casual fan, hardcore gamer, tech tinker, or someone who just wants to know what Gashapon is all about—Northern Playcon has a little something for everyone: from exclusive tech hauls and live watch parties to free-play zones and roundtable gaming convos that could turn even normies into full-blown fanatics.
Northern Playcon is a full-blown, multi-day celebration of tech, gaming, and pop culture designed to bring together casual fans, hardcore players, collectors, and curious newcomers.
Launched as part of the SM Fandom Series and SM Supermalls’ month-long Tech Fair, the event transforms SM North EDSA into a digital playground.
Visitors can explore exclusive tech hauls and deals from leading brands, test the latest gadgets, and discover new gaming peripherals. The venue will also host daily tournaments known as the Northern Playoffs, giving players a chance to show off their skills across multiple game titles and win bragging rights and prizes.
For those who prefer a more social experience, there’s the Gamers’ Round Table—a dedicated space for conversations, collabs, and community building. Whether you’re a streamer, a cosplayer, a game dev, or just someone passionate about the culture, this area is where discussions on gaming trends, strategies, and fandom moments come alive.
And even if you’re just here to watch, you’re covered. The event features daily live watch parties on a giant overhead LED screen, streaming major esports matches and global gaming content for everyone to enjoy. It’s the kind of immersive, come-and-go energy that keeps the excitement running day after day.
Behind this supersized fanverse are some of the biggest names in tech and gaming. The event is powered by PC Express, PLDT Home, and SM Cyberzone. Key partners include Nintendo Switch, Honor of Kings, PUBG Mobile, TECNO Mobile, ASUS Republic of Gamers, DataBlitz, SteelSeries, Evnia, AGON by AOC, Smart Communications, and Pilipinas Live. Bandai Gashapon Global joins in as the official event sponsor, adding a collectible twist for toy and anime fans.
Northern Playcon is designed to be inclusive and high-impact, appealing to both serious gamers and mallgoers who might stumble upon something new and exciting. It’s about creating shared experiences—whether you’re unlocking a new game level, unboxing a new device, or just vibing with fellow fans.
From the high-stakes energy of the KOLs vs NU Bulldogs showmatch to the discovery-driven setups scattered throughout The Block, SM North EDSA isn’t just a venue—it’s the North’s gaming capital this August.
Whether you’re in it for the gadgets, the games, or the good vibes, Northern Playcon is where it all comes together.
So bring your squad, charge your devices, and prepare for battle. The North isn’t just ready—it’s activated.
