The Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), one of the most prominent video game conventions, has announced its permanent closure, according to its organizers. E3 has been held annually in Los Angeles since 1995 and has served as a platform for game companies to showcase their upcoming releases.
The event, organized by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), had already been on hiatus since the COVID-19 pandemic forced its cancellation in June 2020. However, even before the pandemic, E3 was facing challenges, with several companies choosing to skip the event or host their own nearby gatherings.
In 2021, E3 held a virtual-only event, and plans were made for a comeback this year. However, those plans were ultimately canceled following reports that major industry players such as Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo would not attend.
In an emailed statement on Tuesday, the ESA announced the end of E3 after more than two decades of serving as a central showcase for the US and global video game industry. The ESA stated that its future focus will be on supporting member companies and the industry's workforce.
E3's closure marks the end of an era for the video game industry, as the convention has been a significant event for gamers and industry professionals alike. It provided a platform for companies to generate excitement and anticipation for their upcoming releases.
The reasons behind E3's demise are multifaceted, with challenges predating the pandemic. As game companies increasingly host their own events and utilize digital platforms to make announcements, the relevance and necessity of a centralized convention like E3 have been called into question.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how the video game industry will adapt to the absence of E3. Other conventions and events may rise to take its place, or companies may continue to pursue alternative methods of showcasing their products. Regardless, the closure of E3 marks the end of an era in the gaming world.