It may not come as a surprise, but Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony will not be present at E3 2023. It’s still a kick in the pants though as E3 is trying to make a come back after a few absent or digital-only years. The showcase was cancelled in 2020 and 2022, and they went digital-only in 2021. The ESA has collaborated with ReedPop for the in-person 2023 event; however, the big three have decided not to attend this comeback. Do their absence spell the true end for E3?
Image Credit: Games Industry Biz
The conversation surrounding E3’s relevance isn’t new. Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft have been focusing on their individual directs or showcases in recent years, and their massive following is missed revenue for the ESA. I had some initial hope that 2023 would revive the annual event, especially with the help from ReedPop. ReedPop is famously known for running several large name events including New York’s Comic Con, Star Wars Celebration, EGX, and PAX. Their ideas could press fresh insight into the convention.
I also would hope E3 could focus on other publishers and developers. That could pose a challenge too. For example Annapurna Interactive has held its own showcase, Devolver Digital’s Showcase in 2022 was part of Summer Game’s Fest, and Konami held their own Silent Hill Transmission to announce their projects. With the benefits of a more focused showcase, developers and publishers can monopolize the viewer’s attention…which requires less effort at a bustling convention.
Personally, I want as many events to celebrate gaming as possible, but the jury is ultimately for E3’s future. No doubt the big three’s absence will hurt, and only time will tell if the ESA can still launch a successful event.
What are your thoughts on E3? Do you think Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft are important to their success? Please share your thoughts with us on our Boss Rush Facebook Group or our Boss Rush Discord.
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