After more than two decades of captivating gamers and industry professionals, the Electronic Entertainment Expo, or E3, is officially coming to an end. The announcement was made by the nonprofit Entertainment Software Association on Tuesday, marking the permanent closure of one of the world’s largest video game conventions.
E3 had been a staple in the gaming industry since its inception in 1995, drawing in tens of thousands of industry members and fans each June to Los Angeles. However, in recent years, the convention struggled to maintain its relevance in an industry that was rapidly evolving.
The rise of fan-focused conventions like Comic-Con and the Penny Arcade Expo, along with the shift in gaming habits towards mobile and digital distribution, posed significant challenges for E3. Additionally, the loss of key partners such as Nintendo and Sony, who chose to reveal new games at their own events, further impacted the convention’s standing in the industry.
The pandemic dealt a final blow to E3, with the event being canceled in 2020 and going virtual in 2021. E3 was also canceled in 2022 and was unable to recover from the setbacks.
Following the announcement of the convention’s closure, the Entertainment Software Association took to social media to reaffirm its commitment to advocating for its member companies and the industry workforce.
E3’s permanent cancellation represents the end of an era for both players and creators, who had come to view the convention as an annual highlight in the video game industry. The announcement has sparked a wave of nostalgia and reflection among those who have been part of E3’s storied history.
As E3 bids farewell, the gaming industry continues to evolve, and new platforms and events will undoubtedly emerge to take its place. However, the memories and impact of the iconic convention will remain embedded in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to experience it.