The Los Angeles fair corroborates the information that has come out recently and confirms that it cancels it to safeguard the health of the attendees.
There will be no E3 2020, as suggested by the information that has been happening over the past few hours. Through a statement, the ESA (Entertainment Sofware Association) has reported that the fair has been canceled by Wuhan's coronavirus: “After a meticulous consultation with our partners about the health and safety of everyone in the industry – E3 fans, employees, exhibitors and partners — we have made the tough decision to cancel the E3 2020, planned in Los Angeles from June 8 to 11 ”.
According to the organization, after increasing concerns about the COVID-19 virus outbreak, they have thought it was "the best way to proceed" during this "unprecedented global situation." ESA confesses to being “very disappointed at not being able to organize the event this year, but they point out that it is“ the right decision ”based on the information currently available.
The E3 team is devastated to share this news. This decision was not reached lightly, but it is the right one for the health and safety of all involved. Read our statement here: https://t.co/1uOWxTerN9 pic.twitter.com/gD2IxNACLX
– E3 (@ E3) March 11, 2020
ESA an online version
ESA has also confirmed that it will contact the exhibitors and visitors for the money back. In addition, they are studying the possibility of coordinating an “online experience” that opens the door to the possibility of making announcements of the industry in June 2020, although no additional information on this proposal has been provided. The association already thinks of E3 2021, which will return as “a reimagined event that brings fans, the press and the industry together in a show that honors the videogame industry around the world.”
The E3 2020 had already brought about changes compared to other editions, since the forms of communication have varied greatly in recent years. However, that did not prevent Sony from deciding not to attend the fair for the second consecutive year; nor that the creative directors chose to throw in the towel and abandon their role in the 2020 edition.
Ubisoft and Xbox are pronounced: streaming events
Companies like Ubisoft have issued their own statement in which they say they are "exploring options" to unveil all surprises through online broadcasts. Xbox, meanwhile, works on an Xbox Digital Event for the community, where they will offer details about their new console, Xbox Series X. The Redmond company, in the mouth of Phil Spencer, head of the division, has lamented the cancellation and has shown his support: "The E3 has always been important for the Xbox team."
