Shrygue
October 23rd, 2008, 19:59
via Computer and Video Games (http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=200023)
As we reported yesterday, the Entertainment Software Association has caved in to pressure to expand the E3 format, announcing a larger E3 event for 2009, although it won't be open to the public.
The event will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center from June 2-4, 2009, and welcome qualified computer and game industry audiences, including "international and US-based media, analysts, retailers, developers and business partners to preview the latest in interactive entertainment and technology".
Around 5,000 people are thought to have attended 2008's downsized E3 Media and Business Summit at the LA Convention Centre, while in its heyday a glitzy E3 attracted around 60,000 attendees. E3 2009 attendance figures "could be in the neighbourhood of 40,000 or more", Michael Gallagher, CEO the ESA told Joystiq.
The news was well received by EA chief John Riccitiello and Ubisoft's US boss Laurent Detoc, both of whom had heavily criticised 2008's E3, the former saying he "hated" it and the latter calling it "terrible".
"The E3 Expo will be the pre-eminent North American gaming show next year," said Riccitiello, while Detoc said to expect "fireworks".
"Video games are the fastest growing and most compelling sector of the entertainment industry. And, this upgraded event will reflect the growth, innovation and excitement of our industry," added Gallagher.
As we reported yesterday, the Entertainment Software Association has caved in to pressure to expand the E3 format, announcing a larger E3 event for 2009, although it won't be open to the public.
The event will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center from June 2-4, 2009, and welcome qualified computer and game industry audiences, including "international and US-based media, analysts, retailers, developers and business partners to preview the latest in interactive entertainment and technology".
Around 5,000 people are thought to have attended 2008's downsized E3 Media and Business Summit at the LA Convention Centre, while in its heyday a glitzy E3 attracted around 60,000 attendees. E3 2009 attendance figures "could be in the neighbourhood of 40,000 or more", Michael Gallagher, CEO the ESA told Joystiq.
The news was well received by EA chief John Riccitiello and Ubisoft's US boss Laurent Detoc, both of whom had heavily criticised 2008's E3, the former saying he "hated" it and the latter calling it "terrible".
"The E3 Expo will be the pre-eminent North American gaming show next year," said Riccitiello, while Detoc said to expect "fireworks".
"Video games are the fastest growing and most compelling sector of the entertainment industry. And, this upgraded event will reflect the growth, innovation and excitement of our industry," added Gallagher.