In sad news for gamers, publishers, developers and fans, the Entertainment Software Association has delivered the news that the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) is cancelled in 2022.
While the pandemic has done a number to quite a few in-person events over the past couple of years, E3 has been hit with a handful of non-pandemic related blows prior to today’s cancellation that include both Nintendo and Sony no longer hosting booths, events or gatherings at the event.
Prior to the pandemic, both Sony and Nintendo opted for digital showcases that occurred on different days outside of the E3 schedule, to presumably further control its gaming message for the year.
In light of those transitions, the ESA has been vacillating between hosting an in-person or digital E3 in 2022 to better address its evolving audience and partner base, but now has confirmed it will do neither.
Despite a no show in 2022, the ESA believes it can retrench and return in 2023 with a better showcase to celebrate the gaming community.
E3 will return in 2023 with a reinvigorated showcase that celebrates new and exciting video games and industry innovations.
We previously announced that E3 would not be held in person in 2022 due to the ongoing health risks surrounding COVID-19. Today, we announce that there will also be no digital E3 showcase in 2022.
Instead, we will devote all our energy and resources to delivering a revitalized physical and digital E3 experience next summer. Whether enjoyed from the show floor or your favorite devices, the 2023 showcase will bring the community, media, and industry back together in an all-new format and interactive experience.
We look forward to presenting E3 to fans around the world live from Los Angeles in 2023.
Look for more news and announcements soon.
With Microsoft being the last of the big three scheduled to host a presence at E3 in 2022, it will be interesting to see how the company pivots its gaming message for the year.
It should be noted, in 2021 Microsoft hosted a series of digital gaming events throughout the year to help keep fans up to date and interested in the Xbox platform, it seems fairly safe to assume it may return to form in 2022.
