Thursday, December 5, 2024
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E3 2020 cancelled over fears of coronavirus

E3 2020 was already looking murky with the cancellation of GDC, and the fact that the convention’s reputation has been shattered thanks to last year’s ESA leaks. But now with ongoing fears of coronavirus, the final nail is truly in the coffin.

The confirmation of E3 being cancelled this year comes from a report from Ars Technica. In the report they mention that, “multiple sources familiar with the Entertainment Software Association (ESA)’s plans have confirmed to us [Ars Technica] that the organization, which is responsible for the annual Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), will soon cancel the three-day expo.”

As Ars Technica points out, this would be the first time since 1996 that E3 will not be happening. At least, not to the extent that we’re used to, with huge crowds and developer booths, eager to show off their video games. However, as My Nintendo News confirms, the ESA are looking at their options for possibly hosting an online event.

Speculation about E3’s cancellation escalated when Devolver Digital, one of the bigger publishers that had confirmed their presence at E3 2020, tweeted out this ominous message.

There’s no use denying it, coronavirus and the fear of it has led to a lot of people pulling out. A sad state for the convention to be in, especially as the ESA have been doing their best to remain vigilant online that the event would be going ahead.

What this will mean for other gaming events, such as Gamescom, The Tokyo Game Show, and more, remains to be seen. But as of now? It’s safe to assume that these events will either be cancelled, or have a limited presence.

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