Tokyo Game Show 2020 Online Set For September

After the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA) decided to cancel this year's Tokyo Game Show due to the pandemic caused by COVID-19, organizers have made the event into an online extravaganza, an alternative that saw conventions going virtual to accommodate their audience.

The cancelation was announced in May after CESA and co-organizers Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. and Dentsu Inc. prioritized the health and safety of its visitors, exhibitors and stakeholders amid the COVID-19 scare. However, the organizers pointed out that the in-person event will be replaced with an online gathering as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the virus and in accordance with global guidelines set by the government and health officials.

Aptly dubbed as the “Tokyo Game Show 2020 Online,” the virtual counterpart of the Makuhari Messe-bound event will take place from September 23 to 27. According to a press release from CESA, various companies and organizations in the gaming industry ranging from “major publishers and indie game developers” will unveil their latest updates including some of its new titles and services starting September 24 until September 27.

This will be made available through the official Tokyo Game Show channel, as well as streaming programs, videos and websites created by TGS2020 Online exhibits, the press release added.

TGS2020 Online will live stream eSports tournaments while at the same time detail information about game-related goods. There will also be round-table discussions that will touch on the latest news in the world of gaming that can be viewed for free, said Gematsu.

September 23 is reserved for the scheduled “online business matching systems” for exhibitors and those involved in game-related businesses. It will, among others, support the participants to facilitate flawless online meetings and network opportunities.

“The online world is a diverse space where people from all over the world can connect with each other beyond physical distance and time barriers in real-time. Games have a possibility to cross the boundaries of games themselves and change our future in various fields.

“With the evolution of technology and the power of games, an even more exciting future is just around the corner. Be the first to experience this joy,” the press release added.