E3 2020 Will Not Get Digital Replacement

E3 2020 is not happening. There were rumors that there could be some kind of digital-only E3 event that would replace this year’s event. However, those rumors have been put to rest, as an E3 rep says it’s not happening.

“Given the disruption brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, we will not be presenting an online E3 2020 event in June.  Instead, we will be working with exhibitors to promote and showcase individual company announcements, including on www.E3expo.com, in the coming months. We look forward to bringing our industry and community together in 2021 to present a reimagined E3 that will highlight new offerings and thrill our audiences.”

The dates for E3 2021 have already reportedly been set, taking place on June 15-17, 2021. The rep neither confirmed or denied the reported dates.

So while there won’t be an official digital replacement for 2020, E3 will apparently help promote and showcase announcements on their platforms.

The pandemic has affected everything in the entertainment industry with its future being uncertain. The indefinite delay of The Last of Us Part II is the latest wound for gaming fans. A lot of developers can’t even work in the office and can only work from home.

While there may not be an E3, that doesn’t mean there won’t be any upcoming games. Companies like Nintendo have ditched the in-person presentations in favor of digital-only Nintendo Directs, which showcase future games. There will most likely be Nintendo Direct imitators or just a bunch of announcements from any company who has something to show.

The event usually takes place in June at the halfway point of the year to get people excited for games releasing in the fall/winter season. While the pandemic has affected development and release dates will most likely change, news and previews of upcoming games will boost the morale of people during this difficult time.