E3 2023 Returns without Nintendo, PlayStation, or Xbox: ESA and ReedPop Outline the Future of the Iconic Expo
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Published on: February 01, 2023
Description
The Electronic Entertainment Expo, widely recognized as E3, is poised to make a much-anticipated return to a physical format in 2023 after a four-year hiatus due to the global pandemic.
Set to take place from June 13th to June 16th at the Los Angeles Convention Center, E3 2023 was initially expected to mark a triumphant comeback for one of the gaming calendar's most influential expos.
E3 has historically served as a major platform for groundbreaking announcements from industry giants, including Nintendo, PlayStation, and Xbox.
However, recent developments indicate a significant shift in this year’s event dynamic.
According to a report by gaming outlet IGN, corroborated by multiple sources close to the situation, Nintendo, Sony (PlayStation), and Microsoft (Xbox) are set to forgo E3 2023 entirely, with none of these companies hosting showcases or maintaining a presence on the expo’s show floor.
While it has become routine for Nintendo to unveil major titles like those for the Nintendo Switch or highlight developments through its proprietary Nintendo Direct broadcasts, the company has traditionally continued to participate in E3 with dedicated booths until now.
The exit of PlayStation from E3 dates back to 2019, reportedly due to disagreements with the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), the trade body that organizes the event.
Microsoft, which has already announced independent summer showcase plans, will also bypass the expo this year.
This absence of the "Big Three" is poised to reshape the E3 landscape and raises questions about the event's immediate and long-term significance.
In response to mounting industry speculation, the Entertainment Software Association issued an official statement emphasizing its steadfast commitment to E3’s future.
The ESA stressed the complexities of reviving a global tradeshow after a prolonged break, detailing their process in selecting ReedPop—a veteran organizer with a portfolio that includes Comic Con and PAX—as its new operational partner.
The ESA highlighted ReedPop's ongoing efforts to reimagine the expo format and the strong backing received from companies spanning the industry.
Despite evolving exhibition strategies, the ESA reaffirmed its primary focus remains advocating for its member companies' policy interests across state and federal levels.
Similarly, ReedPop addressed concerns regarding major exhibitor participation and transparency, explaining that substantial input from ESA members and industry stakeholders contributed to the extended planning timeline.
ReedPop noted that contracts were distributed to exhibitors only at the start of the current year but reported high levels of interest and verbal commitments from numerous prominent companies.
The organization conveyed confidence that the final exhibitor lineup would justify attendance for both the industry and gaming community.
E3 2023’s return underscores ongoing changes within the industry’s approach to events and communication, particularly given the rise of digital showcases like Nintendo Direct.
With Nintendo, PlayStation, and Xbox absent from the show floor, all eyes are on ESA and ReedPop as they seek to redefine E3 for current market realities and future growth.
Further updates on the event’s exhibitor list and programming are expected as the show date approaches.
