E3 is a show that most gamers look forward to. Even if you've never made the trip to California, it's still a time where we can expect news on upcoming games or announcements of new titles or IPs. I mean, last year alone we were treated to the surprising - and breathtaking - appearance of Keanu Reeves on stage during Microsoft's conference, when it was revealed he'd star in CD Projekt RED's Cyberpunk 2077.
Just yesterday, the state of California declared a state of emergency, so there's some concern that this year's E3 may be at risk due to the continuing spread of the coronavirus, or COVID-19.
Originally, the ESA had stated that they would watch "the situation very closely" and that "given what we know at this time, we are moving ahead full speed with E3 2020 planning". But it appears that the ESA is no longer quite as confident that the show will be unaffected, now that the state of emergency has been declared.
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As such, the ESA has issued a new statement (via GamesIndustry.biz):
"The health and safety of our attendees, exhibitors, partners, and staff is our top priority. While the ESA continues to plan for a safe and successful E3 show June 9-11, 2020 - we are monitoring and evaluating the situation daily. Our E3 team and partners continue to monitor COVID-19 via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). We are actively assessing the latest information and will continue to develop measures to further reduce health risks at the show."
The Game Developers Conference, or GDC, which is held in San Fransisco annually, has already been cancelled this year due to many companies pulling out due to concerns around COVID-19. With E3 being a much larger show than GDC, and with studios and fans attending from all across the world, it seems only logical that it could be the next big gaming event that falls victim to the coronavirus.
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We reported last month that the Nintendo Switch may see shortages as early as next month due to the impact coronavirus is having on Chinese factories. Similarly, both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X may see delays in their manufacture, if the virus continues to spread.
But on a positive note, you can do your bit to help from the comfort of your gaming chair - in case you missed it, earlier today we reported on a game that is helping tackle the coronavirus by asking players to figure out ways to fold proteins. And while that may sound complicated, the game itself can be played by anyone - and it's free to download, too.
Featured Image Credit: ESATopics: E3 2020