After the Covid-19 pandemic cancelled last year’s event, the video game industry showcase returns with E3 2021, set to take place from June 12 through to June 15.
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has officially revealed plans for a reimagined, all-virtual E3 2021 with early commitments from Nintendo, Xbox, Capcom, Konami, Ubisoft, Take-Two Interactive, Warner Bros. Games, and Koch Media.
“For more than two decades, E3 has been the premier venue to showcase the best that the video game industry has to offer while uniting the world through games. We are evolving this year’s E3 into a more inclusive event, but will still look to excite the fans with major reveals and insider opportunities that make this event the indispensable centre stage for video games.”
Stanley Pierre-Louis, President & CEO of the ESA.
How Much Does it Cost?
Initially, reports emerged stating E3 2021 will have a paid component. Fortunately, the ESA confirmed that they are working with media partners to ensure the event is available to everyone for free.
E3 is looking to maintain its longstanding position as a central destination for industry networking. Therefore the digital format means more people than ever can participate. Developers will be showcasing their latest news and games directly to fans around the world via a Livestream.
What Games Will be at E3?
From the companies that have already been confirmed, we are likely to see updates on many upcoming games at the showcase. These include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2, Halo Infinite, Psychonauts 2, Monster Hunter Stories 2, Far Cry 6, PES 2022, NBA 2K22, Hogwarts Legacy, Gotham Knights, and Payday 3.
E3’s absence from 2020 meant that Geoff Keighley’s Summer Game Fest stole the show. It will be interesting to see how these two events coincide with each other. However, one thing is for sure. There will be a lot of gaming news this winter (in the southern hemisphere).
With the rollout out of Covid-19 vaccines, the ESA looks forward to celebrating E3 2022 in person, but until then, E3 2021 will take place digitally from June 12 through to June 15.