Updates about the E3 Conference
Origins and Establishment
The Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), often referred to as the gaming industry’s Super Bowl, has a storied history. Below you can read all about its origins and how it became the pinnacle of gaming announcements, before it got, unfortunately, cancelled.
Inception (1995)
E3 was born in 1995 as a response to the growing video game industry’s need for a centralised platform to showcase upcoming games, hardware, and innovations.
The inaugural E3 took place in Los Angeles, and it quickly became the go-to event for developers, publishers, and industry professionals.
Growth and Evolution
1995–2006: The Formative Years
- During this period, E3 established itself as the world’s largest and most prestigious annual gaming expo.
- Publishers and hardware manufacturers used E3 to unveil groundbreaking titles, consoles, and technologies.
- The event was primarily industry-focused, with limited public access.
2007–2008: Media and Business Summit Biennium
- E3 underwent changes, transitioning to a more intimate format known as the Media and Business Summit.
- The focus shifted to private meetings and press conferences, reducing the grand spectacle of previous years.
2009–2015: Return to Larger Format
- E3 returned to its larger format, welcoming more attendees.
- Streaming media gained prominence, allowing press conferences to reach a global audience.
- The expo continued to be a hub for major announcements.
2016–2019: Opening to the Public
- E3 opened its doors to the public for the first time in 2017, with 15,000 general-admission passes available.
- Fans could experience hands-on demos and interact with industry professionals.
- The Los Angeles Convention Center remained the event’s home.
Recent Developments
2020–2021: Disruptions and Virtual Editions
- The COVID-19 pandemic forced E3’s cancellation in 2020.
- In 2021, E3 returned virtually, but the reception was mixed.
- The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) decided to reevaluate E3’s future.
E3 2023: Cancellation
Unfortunately, E3 has been cancelled once again. Scheduled to return after several years of disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Electronic Entertainment Expo 2023 has officially been called off by its organisers. Initially planned to commence on June 13, marking a comeback to an in-person format for the first time since 2020, the event faced challenges in regaining momentum following previous pandemic-related cancellations. With major players like Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, and Sega already opting out of participation in E3 2023, the decision to cancel the event was not entirely unexpected, reflecting waning interest from both publishers and potential attendees.
Despite the cancellation of E3, the event holds a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide. For many, E3 has been an annual pilgrimage, a celebration of their passion for video games, and a source of excitement and anticipation for upcoming releases and announcements. Over the years, E3 has provided unforgettable moments, iconic reveals, and memorable presentations that have shaped the gaming industry. Its absence may be felt keenly, but the memories and experiences shared at E3 will endure, serving as a testament to the profound impact it has had on gamers and the gaming community as a whole. E3 may be gone for now, but its legacy will live on in the fond memories and cherished moments of gamers everywhere.