E3 2020 Canceled Due to Coronavirus Concerns

Written by Brandon Hofer on March 11, 2020

News: One of the biggest showcases of the year for video games has now been canceled due to health concerns.

It has been speculated on and rumored for a little while now but E3 2020 is officially canceled due to Coronavirus concerns. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) revealed their decision earlier today with the following press release:

” WASHINGTON – MARCH 11, 2020 – After careful consultation with our member companies regarding the health and safety of everyone in our industry – our fans, our employees, our exhibitors, and our longtime E3 partners – we have made the difficult decision to cancel E3 2020, scheduled for June 9-11 in Los Angeles.

Following increased and overwhelming concerns about the COVID-19 virus, we felt this was the best way to proceed during such an unprecedented global situation. We are very disappointed that we are unable to hold this event for our fans and supporters. But we know it’s the right decision based on the information we have today.

Our team will be reaching out directly to exhibitors and attendees with information about providing full refunds.

We are also exploring options with our members to coordinate an online experience to showcase industry announcements and news in June 2020. Updates will be shared on E3expo.com.

We thank everyone who shared their views on reimagining E3 this year. We look forward to bringing you E3 2021 as a reimagined event that brings fans, media, and the industry together in a showcase that celebrates the global video game industry.”

This is definitely the right call for the ESA to make with all of the unknown information that still surrounds the Coronavirus. From a selfish perspective, it sucks it had to come to this because E3 was when I was able to see friends and colleagues that I might only get to see once or twice a year. It isn’t worth risking anyone’s health though.

We’ll be sure to keep you updated as more information is revealed about this potential online show that they will be presenting this year.