Have you ever considered going to E3? Prior to E3 2016, the sheer idea of going to one of the biggest gaming events in the United States was a pipe dream. Prior to opening up to the public, guests could attend the event but for an outstanding $1,000 dollars. Thankfully, general admission tickets for E3 have become much more affordable since opening-up to the public. With the inclusion of the general public, new events were created to offer a well-rounded experience. In addition to the E3 show floor, the E3 Coliseum was created and hosted by Geoff Keighley to allow gamers the opportunity to learn from their favorite developers and ask questions.
Today (February 12th, 2020), Geoff Keighley announced that he will not be participating in E3 2020. For the last three years, Mr. Keighley has hosted the E3 Coliseum welcoming a variety of guests to the show. In prior years, the event has been live-streamed around the world to allow non-attendees the opportunity to catch a glimpse of E3 and their favorite developers.
Keighley’s Statement
In a statement made to the Hollywood reporter, Keigley had this to say,
“Given what has been communicated about E3 so far, I just don’t feel comfortable participating this year. For the past 25 years, I have attended every Electronic Entertainment Expo. Covering, hosting, and sharing E3 has been a highlight of my year, not to mention a defining part of my career. I’ve debated what to say about E3 2020. While I want to support the developers who will showcase their work, I also need to be open and honest with you, the fans, about precisely what to expect from me.”
Next for E3?
With E3 less than four months away, Geoff Keighley‘s absence will definitely be felt. Keighley’s announcement comes after Sony revealed that they will be skipping E3 2020. Following Sony’s announcement, the ESA, E3’s organizers, released a press statement about E3 2020.
“E3 2020 will be an exciting, high-energy show featuring new experiences, partners, exhibitor spaces, activations, and programming that will entertain new and veteran attendees alike.”
For those who have not met Keighley, his comedic demeanor eases uncomfortable situations. Having only met the man once, it was definitely a pleasure. Hopefully, he will still attend E3 2020 in some capacity. In his twitter responses, Keighley is rather vague with his answers. Hopefully, E3 2020 is able to live up to the established industry norms.
I think E3 needs to become more digital and global….it's a brand that means a lot to people, but it shouldn't just be a show floor.
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) February 12, 2020
A ton of factors, I just don't really feel comfortable participating given what I know about the show as of today.
— Geoff Keighley (@geoffkeighley) February 12, 2020
What do you think about this news? Is E3 coming to an end?
