During E3’s return to the Los Angeles Convention Center this June, Microsoft won’t be present on the show floor due to the ongoing pandemic. Instead, Microsoft will be hosting their Xbox Games Showcase on June 11th and co-streaming the event as part of E3 Digital. An Xbox spokesperson confirmed the news, stating that more details will be shared soon.
Back in February, IGN reported that Microsoft, along with Sony and Nintendo, would not have a presence on the show floor during E3 2023. Despite this, there was still hope that Microsoft would be participating in the event after announcing a dedicated Starfield showcase on June 11th, the same day E3’s “Digital Week” kicks off. However, Microsoft has confirmed that they will not be attending the in-person portion of the event. Nintendo previously announced that they would not be attending E3 2023, while Sony has yet to confirm their presence.
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) is facing a significant setback as all major console manufacturers are absent from the E3 show floor this year. Since 2019, when the ESA accidentally leaked the contact information of more than 2,000 journalists, analysts, and content creators, the show has lost much of its luster. The pandemic and the emergence of competing events like Summer Game Fest have hindered E3’s ability to regain its foothold in the industry.
