By: Nick Gambino
Since the pandemic, the fate of E3, the biggest video game expo in the world, has been in question. Now, it’s official – E3 is officially over. It’s dead. It’s done. They’re not bringing it back.
— E3 (@E3) December 12, 2023
The Electronic Entertainment Expo (that’s where the “E3” comes from) had been going strong from 1995 until 2020. That was when the COVID pandemic forced them to cancel the popular event just like every other event in the world. In 2021, they held a middling virtual-only event. That seemed to be a hiccup, but then when plans for events in 2022 and 2023 were canceled, it was clear something was up.
Now we have our answer. The Entertainment Software Association which runs the events has decided not to bring it back and try and recapture the excitement of its pre-pandemic heyday.
“After more than two decades of hosting an event that has served as a central showcase for the U.S. and global video game industry, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has decided to bring E3 to a close,” they said. “ESA remains focused on advocating for ESA member companies and the industry workforce who fuel positive cultural and economic impact every day.”
It seems we can’t just blame it all on the pandemic. Games have always been virtual, but in recent years, they’ve moved more and more online. You don’t need to own a physical video game to play it. Downloads are quickly becoming the norm. Look at the decline of brick-and-mortar shops like GameStop.
As a result, exhibitors and game developers have been falling off the roster. Some have even started their own events that are targeted directly to their fans as opposed to industry insiders.
While it’s pretty official that E3 is dead, I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of a revival in the next few years. If pop culture has taught us anything, it’s that people love a comeback story.
