The Electronic Entertainment Expo or E3 is right around the corner and the excitement is on the surge but this time probably for a different reason.
For the past two decades, at E3 we have observed countless exclusive game announcements, with the brightest of names from the gaming industry taking part in it. The event is open to journalists and people from the gaming industry exclusively. But it seems that this year, the Entertainment Software Association is turning around the style with its ‘E3 Live’.
E3 Live would be a side-show for the general masses. Around 20,000 people are expected to show up and the tickets are absolutely free with a first come, first serve basis and are reportedly all sold out. It will not be held at the same venue as E3, but next door at the LA Live Event Center and the attendees will get to try their hands on brand new gadgets, hear about latest releases and much more, everything firsthand.
But what can be the reason behind this sudden move by E3?
In the age of internet, where digital release is a real thing and with websites like twitch delivering gameplay videos live with streamers describing pretty much everything, big companies might not consider waiting for June for an event to reveal any big news.
Already many companies have retracted from the event. Nintendo has not done a proper conference in the E3 for a fair time now, they play pre-streamed videos in the event and this year they will be doing the same with info about the new Legend of Zelda game, and NX maybe?
Even Activision Blizzard will not have a booth for the first time at E3 this year.
Another factor is, these events are actually for the gamers and fans, if they get to try out something firsthand, it can always be beneficial for the companies. Electronic Arts is likely to host EA Play, which promises to include the consumers as well. Although it cannot be compared in proper terms, PAX receives a lot of attention and love from its fans, because they get to indulge and be a part of the event.
Maybe this is the trend that is needed for Entertainment Software Association to once again attract more eyeballs and stay in the league. Let’s hope E3 Live comes as a refreshment to everyone as its set to take place from 14 to 16 June, 2016.