The Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) has been open only to media personnel and gaming industry executives in the past, and thankfully, the event is now going against the tradition. E3 will be open to the general public this year, and those who are not professionally connected to the gaming world could attend the show in Los Angeles.
Starting Feb. 13, the Entertainment Software Association will sell 15,000 passes to the public via its official website. The first 1,000 tickets will be priced at $150, and the rest will be sold for $250. Press and business passes are still available for gaming professionals with exclusive perks like a lounge, special entrance, and more.
E3 is the most recognized gaming trade show worldwide. In 2015, E3 invited 5,000 dedicated fans who were gifted by exhibitors in the trade show. It also held the E3 Live event last year where 20,000 public attendees participated outside the LA Convention Center.
"It's a changing industry," ESA Senior VP for Communications Rich Taylor said. "The decision to open our doors to 15,000 fans was a strategic decision. It is thanks to our members and their vision and leadership that made this possible."
The decision was propelled by public enthusiasm as well as withdrawing entities because of its industry-focused model. A couple of high-profile publishers withdrew from the show last year, with some hosting their events instead of participating in the E3 show floor. Other conventions such as PAX includes four annual shows which allow exhibitors to directly engage with the press and gamers. Nevertheless, E3is still the biggest event for high-profile exhibitors and publishers.
The Crash Bandicoot for PlayStation Plus release date will be announced at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2017 event on June 13 in Los Angeles with games expected to be included in the list such as Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China, LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham, Gravity Rush Remastered, Alienation and Shadow Complex Remastered.