E3 2022 to be online-only due to omicron

E3 2022 will be online-only again as the Entertainment Software Association cites concerns over the COVID-19 omicron variant. 

Following rising cases and deaths within the US, a statement from ESA to GamesBeat stated: “Due to the ongoing health risks surrounding COVID-19 and its potential impact on the safety of exhibitors and attendees, E3 will not be held in person in 2022. 

“We are nonetheless excited about the future of E3 and look forward to announcing more details soon.”

The aforementioned statement means the Electronic Entertainment Exo will, for the second time since its inception back in 1995, be digital-only. Typically help towards the middle of June each year, the decision to pull the plug so early on in the new year puts the ESA’s eggs all in one basket, regardless if COVID concerns remain or restrictions tightened/eased. 

E3 2022 could see the ESA provide companies with digital booths on the event’s online app and portal, similar to its 2021 offering.