The Entertainment Software Association announced an all-virtual E3 2021 today.
Some big names in the industry are attending the show. So far the companies that have committed to the new online-only format are Nintendo, Microsoft, Capcom, Konami, Ubisoft, Take-Two (2K and Rockstar Games), WB Games, and Koch Media.
Notably absent are some equally big names. For instance, there is no mention of Sony, Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Sega, Bandai Namco, or Square Enix in the ESA’s announcement.
“For more than two decades, E3 has been the premier venue to showcase the best that the video game industry has to offer while uniting the world through games,” said Stanley Pierre-Louis, President & CEO of the ESA. “We are evolving this year’s E3 into a more inclusive event, but will still look to excite the fans with major reveals and insider opportunities that make this event the indispensable center stage for video games.”
E3 2021 takes place from June 12 through June 15. The ESA says that this year’s all-digital show is completely free for everyone.
My Take
In the past, E3 was an in-person insiders’ event that was closed to the public. Between the pandemic and the changing media landscape, those days are over. I think that’s mostly a good thing since it means wider access for fans.
