It’s official: E3 2023 has been cancelled. Gaming’s biggest trade event, which has been bringing gamers and industry professionals together since 1995, will not be taking place this year. For many gamers, E3 has been a highlight of the year, eagerly anticipated for months in advance. It’s a place to see the latest and greatest games, meet developers and publishers, and get a glimpse of what the future of gaming holds. However, with recent changes in the industry, including the rise of virtual events, the cancellation of E3 2023 isn’t entirely surprising. Nonetheless, it marks the end of an era for gaming and leaves many wondering what the future of gaming events will hold.
Once upon a time, E3 was like a holiday season for video game enthusiasts, as industry giants like Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft would converge to unveil their biggest announcements of the year. However, due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the emergence of other initiatives, E3 – gaming’s largest trade event – has been cancelled. Despite planned to make a grand comeback with a multi-day, in-person conference in Los Angeles, many companies had already decided to forgo the event in favor of hosting their own game showcases throughout the year. Reedpop and the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), the organizers of E3, have announced the cancellation of the event, stating that industry-wide and resourcing challenges inhibited the ability of interested companies to participate. Despite the cancellation, gaming enthusiasts can still expect exciting gaming announcements in June, with events such as the Summer Games Fest and Sony’s digital news events.
Sadly, it seems that the gaming community will have to wait a little longer to experience the excitement and anticipation of E3. As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact the world, it’s understandable that the organizers of this massive event would prioritize the health and safety of attendees and staff. However, there’s no doubt that E3 will be missed – a place where the latest and greatest in gaming technology and releases were unveiled, and where fans could come together to celebrate their shared love of gaming culture. While we wait for E3 2024, let’s take this time to reflect on our favorite moments from past events and look forward to what the future of gaming has in store for us.
