E3 Expo Evolution: Why the 2023 Show Was Scrapped and What It Means for the Industry
The E3 gaming expo, once a staple event organized by the Entertainment Software Association, did not run online or in person in 2023. Reports from Portal and Kotaku confirm the cancellation and point to a shift in how major game makers approach announcements and showcases.
The core issue wasn’t a single setback but a broader change in the industry’s rhythm. A growing number of big publishers and developers have started hosting their own events or choosing controlled spaces to unveil future titles. Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo, Ubisoft, and several other studios reportedly opted out of participating in E3 2023, signaling a preference for streamlined, brand-specific presentations. Those involved with the ESA were notified of the cancellation through official communications, underscoring a pivot away from traditional trade shows toward self-directed marketing calendars.
Historically, E3 2023 had been slated to unfold at the Los Angeles Convention Center from June 13 to 16. The 2023 plan marked a return to live gatherings after the COVID-19 interruption in 2020. A virtual online format had carried the show in 2021, but the 2022 edition did not occur. The E3 event first opened its doors in May 1995, creating a long legacy as a central hub for developers, publishers, and enthusiasts to converge around new revelations and industry chatter.
As the industry adjusts, observers note a shifting landscape where hype cycles and product reveals are increasingly decoupled from a single game fair. The move reflects a broader trend toward direct-to-consumer and controlled media platforms, where studios design their own timelines, curate audiences, and tailor messaging without the fixed schedules of a large trade show. This evolution mirrors how gaming communities consume news today—through live streams, social channels, and on-demand content that can be targeted by region and platform.
For stakeholders, the cancellation of E3 2023 does not erase momentum. Independent studios and established publishers continue to push announcements, demos, and early access programs across a mosaic of events, digital showcases, and private briefings. The flexibility of these formats allows for more varied presentations, tighter messaging, and the ability to reach fans in Canada and the United States through direct channels. In this shift, the focus remains on delivering excitement around upcoming releases while maintaining messaging consistency across markets and devices. citations: Portal; Kotaku