E3 2009 is going back to the trade show’s roots, ditching the intimate affairs of the past two years and going back to the “grand ol’ show” of years past. The decision comes after two years of complaints by influential industry insiders who felt the show’s downsizing was too drastic and had caused the industry to lose some luster.
According to a report on X-Play, E3 2009 will return to the Los Angeles Convention Center — where it was held this year — from June 2-4. However, rather than be limited to specially invited media and analysts only, the ESA is reportedly going to loosen its qualifications for attendance so it gets a bit larger.
For the record, the ESA is not confirming the report on X-Play, but they’re not denying it either. Changes have long been anticipated for the format of E3 2009, as we reported after this year’s show.
Needless to say, we will bring you official confirmation from the ESA when it becomes available. In the meantime, we’re torn about this news. On one hand, we felt like we were able to accomplish and see a lot more in the new/smaller format, but on the other, we definitely missed the “circus” feel of the show. With any luck, the ESA can find a balance.
