"Fun Was Had": Ama1ks Skipping-Rope Game Sparks Massive Online Buzz
- A video brought old-school skipping games back to life, capturing the carefree joy shared by many South Africans growing up
- The moment became a powerful reminder of warm neighbourhood memories and simple fun
- South African viewers online felt drawn to the relatable sense of culture, play, and togetherness
South Africans connected deeply with the throwback scene that honoured shared memories and playful local spirit.
Source: TikTok
A TikTok video shared by @opangbotsi on 3 November 2025 brought pure nostalgia to South Africans as it captured children of the 80s and early 90s, popularly called Ama1ks, enjoying old-school street games. The clip, posted on a public platform, featured adults reconnecting with their childhood as they skipped rope with easy laughter and quick feet. The moment played out on a neighbourhood street, reminding many of carefree afternoons before technology took over. The video quickly drew attention for the way it revived the spirit of community, memory, and play.
The scene was less about perfect performance and more about joy, familiarity, and the shared experience of growing up in South Africa. The rope slapped the pavement in rhythm while the group cheered each other on, creating an atmosphere that felt both deeply nostalgic and refreshingly simple. Childhood games like these are often linked to friendships, cousins, and summer holidays, so the moment sparked emotional reflection across viewers who remembered similar scenes from their youth. The video served as a reminder of the beauty of local traditions and how they quietly weave communities together.
SA nostalgia boosts cultural pride
Within just two days, the video posted by TikTok user @opangbotsi was liked by over 6,300 people and received more than 1,200 comments, proving just how relatable the moment was. The skipping-rope rhythm and playful energy inspired many to tag old friends they grew up with. The clip circulated widely, with online conversations celebrating these precious memories that shaped so many South Africans. The hashtag activity surged, showing that even small, playful moments can create large emotional ripples online.
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South Africans expressed joy at seeing their childhood reflected so clearly. Many viewers said they could almost feel themselves jumping again, and others felt it reminded them of communities where everyone played outside together. The sentiment was overwhelmingly warm, grounded in a shared culture that values laughter, connection, and storytelling. The video reminded people that growing up here came with simple treasures.
Source: TikTok
Mzansi embraced ama1ks
Karabo Brian Monareng Bruno commented:
“Only the '70s and '90s can do this. Ama ‘80s and 2k, they no longer have the energy to jump, the knees hurt, and it’s exhausting.”
Tony Mhayi commented:
“This is beautiful, and it’s better than drinking alcohol.”
Ratos commented:
“This is nice. 🥰🥰🥰”
Moropodi T commented:
“I still need a rematch with hide and seek.”
Mpho commented:
“This fun is needed to motivate our kids during holidays. It avoids gossip and cards; this chain is better.”
Ketsoenhle Thabang L commented:
“Fun we had. 🥰🥰 From 1970 till 1999.”
Naledi Lesedi commented:
“Please do kokolofute, it’s a childhood game. 🥰🥰”
BMW commented:
“Then the next morning, Mama wakes you up. 👩🏽💼 Eish, it hurts so much, ngwanaka. 🤣🤣”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Other Briefly News stories related to childhood games
- A hilarious video captured a group of lobola delegates being subjected to a playful series of financial challenges by a young gate negotiator at their in-laws' house.
- A TikTok video shows some Jamaican people playing a game that looked familiar to many South Africans.
- A South African woman in the US shared a video of her teaching American kids to play traditional African games.
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Source: Briefly News
