E3 2020 Could Still Happen As An "Online Experience"

E3 2020 has officially been canceled. The ESA, the company that organizes the annual gaming showcase, has confirmed it has decided to cancel this year's show over growing concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus. While the expo proper will no longer be taking place, however, the ESA says it is looking into a possible online alternative.

In a statement, the ESA said it is "exploring options with our members to coordinate an online experience to showcase industry announcements and news in June 2020." The organization didn't share any more details about this possible alternative, but it says further updates will be posted on the official E3 website.

Following the news of E3 2020's cancellation, Xbox boss Phil Spencer announced that Microsoft plans to hold an "Xbox digital event" in place of its annual E3 press conference. Ubisoft similarly announced that it is "exploring other options for a digital experience that will allow us to share all the exciting news we have planned."

E3 is only the latest gaming event to be affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. GDC 2020 was postponed, while SXSW, Emerald City Comic Con, and other events were also canceled over concerns about the virus.

E3 2020 was slated to take place from June 9-11, although this year's show would have been missing a number of key players. For the second year running, Sony decided not to attend the event. Geoff Keighley, who has hosted the fan-focused E3 Coliseum showcase since 2017, also backed out of the show for the first time in 25 years, and iam8bit recently announced it resigned from its position as E3 2020's creative directors.

Despite E3 2020's cancellation, the ESA still plans to hold the event next year. "We thank everyone who shared their views on reimagining E3 this year. We look forward to bringing you E3 2021 as a reimagined event that brings fans, media, and the industry together in a showcase that celebrates the global video game industry," the organization said. For more, check out our look back at E3's biggest moments.