Dstv's 'shaka Ilembe' Now Has Its Own Puzzle Game Called Match Challenge

Gamers who are fans of DStvs historical drama series Shaka iLembe now have a themed game to play called Match Challenge.

DStv announced the puzzle games launch in a statement shared with Current Affairs ZA on Tuesday 8 July.

Season 2 of Shaka iLembe is currently captivating audiences with its sweeping drama about the origin story of King Shaka and the rise of the Zulu nation.

Match Challenge is a casual match-three puzzle game that brings the Shaka iLembe universe to life through fast rounds, strategic combos and visual storytelling, DStv said.

Players match symbols like spears, drums and shields to score points, unlock power-ups and earn Rewards Boxes filled with loot like gems, coins, but most importantly, entries.

The Shaka-themed game is available under the Rewards section of the MyDStv App and is free for DStv subscribers. It is open to all active DStv Rewards members, across any package.

Since launching last week, thousands of players have been enjoying Match Challenge, spending an average of 41 minutes per session, with peak play times coinciding with primetime viewing on DStv, the pay-TV service said.

The mechanic is simple, but layered: line up three or more matching tiles, build combos, use special power-ups and unlock new challenges. Clear rows with spears. Activate gems that wipe out entire blocks. Stack points and chase top spot on the leaderboard.

And there's a smart twist: as the show progresses, so does the game. Certain challenges only become available once new episodes have aired, rewarding fans who keep up to date.

The game is part of MyDStv Apps Arcade gaming hub , which offers short, casual games linked to shows and sport.