Theoretically this year E3 will be a secure location for the non-industry would-be attendees.
Jeff's past comment, if someone really want to go, you could get in, may not be true. The price alone may stagger some. The venue may thwart others--really, who would want to be in L.A.? The age restriction should keep many attendees out. If somehow you are not dissuaded, the industry identification will stop you. Fortunately for professionals and aspiring forgery experts, the requirements are listed:
E3 2006 Accepted Form of Industry Identification- Resale Tax Certificate
- Company Credit Card (WITH APPLICANT'S NAME)
- Insurance Card
- Business Ad (WITH BUSINESS CARD)
- Business License
- Commercial Lease (WITH COMPANY NAME)
- Paycheck Stub
- W-2 Form
Forgery is against the law and wrong, don't do it kids!
To secure any of the above wouldn't be too hard for entrepreneuring individuals with a taste for interactive entertainment.
Juxtaposing previous, industry-specific trade show appearances with archived E3 footage, I would say E3 seems to have similar security flaws. But if you are, principled in alignment, getting in would not be through any of the holes.
If you aren't 18, don't go.
If the cost of entry is above your reservation price, don't go.
If you can't draw a direct link to the industry, don't go.
If the thought of looking at fake people milling about a city built upon a fractured foundation does not appeal to you, don't go.
However, if you are over 18, willing to pay the price, work in the industry (or support it in some way other than merely buying the games), and can tolerate perpetual sunlight and moderately warm temperatures . . . pack your bags, hit the road, and bring some friends along to subsidize the gas!
If Britney Spears can do it, so can you.