It’s the end of an era in the gaming world. The iconic Electronic Entertainment Expo, widely recognised as E3, has been permanently cancelled.
Why E3 was permanently cancelled
This decision, announced by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) on Tuesday, brings to a close a convention that has been a cornerstone of the video game industry since its inception in 1995.
E3’s journey began over two decades ago, quickly establishing itself as the central showcase for the US and global video game industry.
However, the ESA’s recent statement reflects a bittersweet reality.
“After more than two decades of hosting an event that has served as a central showcase for the US and global video game industry, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has decided to bring E3 to a close,” the trade group said.
The ESA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for its member companies and the industry workforce, who contribute significantly to cultural and economic impacts.
The decline of E3 began in 2020 when the event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The subsequent years saw the expo struggling to regain its former glory. In 2021, an all-virtual E3 was held, but it failed to capture the essence and excitement of the in-person experience.
This struggle continued, leading to the cancellation of the event in 2022 and 2023, as the conference found it challenging to attract exhibitors.
Was Nintendo pulling out the final nail in the coffin?
The final nail in the coffin was the announcement made earlier this year by Nintendo, one of the gaming industry’s titans.
Nintendo confirmed its decision to not attend E3 2023, despite being a long-standing supporter of the event. In a statement, Nintendo explained its absence,
“We approach our involvement in any event on a case-by-case basis and are always considering various ways to engage with our fans. Since this year’s E3 show didn’t fit into our plans, we have made the decision to not participate,” the gaming giants said at the time.
The cancellation of E3 marks a significant shift in the gaming industry. For years, E3 was the epicentre of gaming innovation and announcements, a place where gaming enthusiasts and industry professionals converged to celebrate and unveil the future of gaming.
Its absence leaves a void, prompting questions about the future of industry showcases and the evolving nature of how gaming news and products will be shared in an increasingly digital world.
As we bid farewell to E3, we remember its legacy – a legacy of innovation, excitement, and community that shaped the gaming world for nearly three decades.
The ESA’s decision to close the chapter on E3 is not just the end of an event; it’s the end of an era, signalling new beginnings and the evolution of the gaming industry as it steps into a future beyond the confines of traditional expos.
