The Electronic Entertainment Expo, also known as E3, is an annual event that highlights the latest advancements in the gaming industry, including game announcements, trailers, and hardware updates. However, E3 2020 was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading many companies to conduct their own virtual showcases or release trailers independently. Fortunately, E3 is making a return this year, albeit in a different format.
To ensure the safety of attendees during the pandemic, the Entertainment Software Association has decided to make E3 2021 a fully online event. Instead of a physical venue, the event will feature a digital platform connecting participants to virtual exhibitor booths. These booths will showcase presentations, trailers, and interactive content from various developers and publishers who typically participate in E3. Additionally, there will be live streams, gameplay demonstrations, and social media engagement such as forums and leaderboards. Confirmed participants include Nintendo, Xbox, Capcom, Konami, Ubisoft, Take-Two Interactive, and Warner Bros. Games. Notably absent from the list is Sony.
E3 2021 will feature games from Square Enix, Sega, Gearbox, and Bandai Namco, joining the previously announced partners. https://t.co/KxzydDodKm pic.twitter.com/gF1bNy7uGM
— IGN (@IGN) May 6, 2021
In addition to accessing the online platform via a computer, users can also utilize the E3 2021 app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app will offer the same content as the digital portal, as well as mobile-friendly features like polls and highlighted tweets. Alternatively, viewers can watch broadcasts on E3’s Twitch, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook pages.
The event is scheduled to take place from June 12 to June 15. Pre-registration will be free and open later in the month. Media access week will commence on June 7, providing press members with opportunities to engage directly with developers and publishers for interviews and insights.
