E3 2020 Has Been Officially Canceled

Yes, you read that right. Due to the grown concern over the coronavirus, one of the world’s largest gaming conventions has been canceled.

The unfortunate news was relayed to the press by the ESA. “After careful consultation with our member companies regarding the health and safety of everyone in our industry – our fans, our employees, our exhibitors, and our longtime E3 partners – we have made the difficult decision to cancel E3 2020, scheduled for June 9-11 in Los Angeles,” said in a statement they gave earlier today.

They continued, “Following increased and overwhelming concerns about the COVID-19 virus, we felt this was the best way to proceed during such an unprecedented global situation. We are very disappointed that we are unable to hold this event for our fans and supporters. But we know it’s the right decision based on the information we have today.”

This news shouldn’t come as a shock considering it’s only the latest in a stream of cancellations. Both game related  not; the cancellations range from GDC to Facebook’s F8 Developer conference, the latter of which was scheduled for May. E3 was to be held two months after.

That’s not to say that the various companies who normally take part in the show won’t be affected. As we speak, they’re making plans to showcase their products in different ways. Most seem to be going the Nintendo Direct route.

An update regarding E3 2020. pic.twitter.com/cThkDIkfVm

— Ubisoft (@Ubisoft) March 11, 2020

The coronavirus has shaken up the industry (and the economy as a whole). Here’s hoping that things turn around soon. In the meantime, don’t take unnecessary trips and continue to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.