While it’s hard to believe, it’s already time to discuss E3 2021. With 2020’s show having been cancelled due to the pandemic, and moving to a digital type of format, there’s been a lot of discussion on how it should be presented in 2021.
With the pandemic still in a serious state globally, it seems the ESA is planning for a digital event again in 2021. Though according to the details shared so far (courtesy of VGC), it would be handled differently from 2020. Here’s what we know so far:
“The ESA’s intention is to hold multiple two-hour keynote sessions from games partners, an awards show, a June 14 preview night and other smaller streams from game publishers, influencers and media partners.”
- Going back to a core “3 day major event” style of E3 from June 15-17th
- Multiple 2 hour long keynotes for major partners/publishers similar to prior conferences
- A “preview night” on June 14th from smaller partners/publishers
- The core show would be supplemented by media previews in the weeks leading up to the show
- Plans are still to be reviewed and approved by the ESA Board
- Geoff Keighley will not be involved
Our Take
We really miss E3, and game shows in general, so we’re happy to see it continuing. While we’re disappointed it won’t be in-person in 2021, we like the plans being discussed and will be paying close attention to this as it develops.