In the pandemic and post-pandemic gaming world, the E3 Expo has given us some mixed feels. E3 2020 was cancelled but it was revived in 2021, only to see another (and seemingly permanent) closure in 2022. ReedPOP, the group behind PAX, EGX, NYCC, Star Wars Celebration and more, have picked up the event to breathe life into the legendary convention once again.
Back in full swing at the LA Convention Center, E3 ’23 is altering how the program is going to work slightly. What’s the same – we’re looking at a four-day expo from Tuesday, June 13 through Friday, June 16, and partnered digital events and showcases will precede the show starting June 11.
What’s different – a business/consumer split akin to Gamescom. E3 Business Days will take place June 13 – 15, with the general public welcome for E3 Gamer Days on June 15 and 16. Throughout the show, certain halls and spaces will be reserved for registered game industry professionals, including developers, publishers, distributors, and the gaming media. When consumers join the celebration on June 15, spectacular booths and a dedicated theater offering deep-dive looks at highly anticipated titles await.
Business Days is reserved exclusively for registered industry personnel to network in-person, hold professional meetings, and connect with licensors and distributors. Amidst dedicated, industry-only halls and spaces, media can go hands-on with upcoming games showcased by developers and publishers from around the world. Gamer Days will take place in a different hall than the industry area, inviting consumers to go hands-on with the future of gaming and connect with developers, content creators, media personalities, and more. A dedicated theater of content, open to ticket holders, will run during these days.
“E3 is one of the global gaming industry’s few opportunities to come together, unite as one loud voice, and show the world what it is creating,” said ReedPop VP of Gaming Kyle Marsden-Kish. “Our vision is to reunite the industry by re-establishing the traditional E3 week, bring back that spark, and restore E3’s role as a truly magical global showcase event for game creators and consumers.”
Media registration for E3 2023 will begin in December. Confirmed exhibitors, hotel and travel guides, event schedules, and more will be shared in the months to come. Media, creators, industry professionals, and fans are encouraged to follow E3 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
With both PAX shows and E3 in the same portfolio, 2023 is going to be a banger of a year for gaming events.
