Coronavirus News: ESA Planning 'Digital Experiences' After Cancellation Of E3 2020

The Electronic Software Association said it would work with exhibitors and partners to organize digital experiences to replace the annual E3 trade show after it was officially canceled due to coronavirus concerns.

The ESA’s announced plans follow the official decision to cancel the E3 floor show in June to prevent further spread of COVID-19. Organizers will work with the developers and publishers originally planning to attend to put together “online experiences” as an avenue to share news and fresh looks at upcoming games.

Microsoft was the first to confirm their intention to organize a digital event to replace their annual press conference that had previously opened the E3 week. Xbox head Phil Spencer confirmed the plans on Twitter, saying details about the show would be released “in the coming weeks.”

Ubisoft followed up on Microsoft’s plans, saying it would explore “all options for a digital experience” to act in place of their annual press conference.

Nintendo, Bethesda, Square Enix, Capcom, Sega, Take-Two, and Bandai Namco were all reportedly set to have some sort of presence at E3 in 2020. Electronic Arts has not commented on its annual EA Play event in Hollywood that previously took place the weekend before E3.

The ESA spoke about its plans, and the decision to cancel the annual video game trade show, in an official statement on the E3 website:

“After careful consultation with our member companies regarding the health and safety of everyone in our industry – our fans, our employees, our exhibitors, and our longtime E3 partners – we have made the difficult decision to cancel E3 2020, scheduled for June 9-11 in Los Angeles.

Following increased and overwhelming concerns about the COVID-19 virus, we felt this was the best way to proceed during such an unprecedented global situation. We are very disappointed that we are unable to hold this event for our fans and supporters. But we know it’s the right decision based on the information we have today.

Our team will be reaching out directly to exhibitors and attendees with information about providing full refunds.

We are also exploring options with our members to coordinate an online experience to showcase industry announcements and news in June 2020. Updates will be shared on E3Expo.com.

We thank everyone who shared their views on reimagining E3 this year. We look forward to bringing you E3 2021 as a reimagined event that brings fans, media, and the industry together in a showcase that celebrates the global video game industry.”