By Emma Reynolds 
E3 Gaming Expo has been a highly anticipated event for gamers all around the world. It has been a hub for new game releases, exciting announcements, and spectacular displays of technology. However, after months of speculation and rumors, it has been officially announced that the iconic gaming convention is shutting down permanently. This news has shaken the gaming community to its core and has left many wondering about the future of the industry. Let’s take a closer look at the reasons behind this decision and what it means for the future of gaming.
Firstly, let’s address the elephant in the room – the COVID-19 pandemic. The global health crisis has had a major impact on industries all over the world, and the gaming industry has not been spared. With large gatherings and events being cancelled or moved online, it was only a matter of time before E3 faced the same fate. The cancellation of last year’s E3 was already a sign of trouble, but the recent announcement of its permanent closure has come as a shock to many.
But the impact of the pandemic may not be the only reason behind this decision. Over the years, E3 has faced criticism for its high costs, lack of diversity, and struggling attendance rates. As gaming becomes more accessible and digital, the need for a physical convention may not be as strong as it once was. Companies now have the ability to directly interact with their audience through online platforms, making a physical event like E3 less necessary.
So what does this mean for the future of gaming? With E3 being one of the biggest and most influential gaming conventions, its permanent closure has left a void in the industry. Many are speculating that other gaming events, such as Gamescom and The Game Awards, may now step up to take E3’s place. However, the loss of E3 may also open up new opportunities for smaller and more diverse gaming conventions to emerge.
The closure of E3 also begs the question – what will happen to the highly anticipated game announcements and reveals? Many developers and publishers have relied on E3 to showcase their new releases and generate hype for their upcoming projects. Without this platform, companies will have to get creative and find new ways to connect with their audience and make exciting announcements.
In conclusion, the permanent closure of E3 Gaming Expo is certainly the end of an era. It was a convention that brought gamers from all over the world together and provided a platform for the gaming industry to thrive. Its absence will definitely be felt, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the end of major gaming events and conventions. The industry is constantly evolving, and new opportunities and platforms will continue to emerge. We may be saying goodbye to E3, but the future of gaming is definitely still bright.