E3 No More: Once World's Biggest Gaming Expo, Now Cancelled Permanently

"Thanks for the memories."

Gamers line up to get into the Los Angeles Convention Center on the opening day of E3 2004. ( Image Source :Getty )

In a significant development, organizers of the prominent video game convention, the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), have officially announced the permanent closure of the event. Established in 1995, E3 had been a highly anticipated annual gathering in Los Angeles, where gaming companies unveiled their latest products prior to their market release.

Hosted by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), E3 faced challenges even before the COVID-19 pandemic, as several companies chose to either skip the event or organise independent gatherings nearby. Following the cancellation of the 2020 edition due to the pandemic, E3 attempted a virtual-only event in 2021 and had plans for a comeback this year. However, the resurgence was thwarted by the absence of industry giants Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo, prompting the ESA to make the decision to bring an end to E3.

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— E3 (@E3) December 12, 2023

In an official statement emailed on Tuesday, reports Washington Post, the ESA stated, "After more than two decades of serving as a central showcase for the US and global video game industry, ESA has decided to end E3." The organisation expressed its commitment to redirect its focus toward supporting member companies and the broader industry workforce.

E3 originated as a trade show in the 1990s, evolving into a globally anticipated event for video gamers. Major companies traditionally utilised the platform to unveil upcoming projects for the following year and beyond. Notable moments include the showcasing of the Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 consoles at the 2005 event, according to the Washington Post.

The demise of E3 can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the departure of Sony PlayStation from the event in 2018, triggering a chain reaction of vendors and companies withdrawing their participation. The subsequent withdrawal of former E3 collaborator and journalist Geoff Keighley further contributed to the event's decline. Keighley has since successfully organised independent events, such as the Summer Game Fest, and has played a significant role in enhancing the showcase format at the annual Game Awards.