If you’ve longed to attend E3 but never had the opportunity, there’s good news. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA), which hosts E3, has introduced a new event called the Interactive Innovation Conference (iicon). While not directly linked to E3, this new venture has already attracted major players in the industry like Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo.
Summary of essential information you need to be aware of.
- E3 will not return, however, ESA revealed a new event called iicon.
- The trade show is scheduled for April 2026 in Las Vegas, featuring major companies in the industry.
- The event will not be open to guests like E3 and will instead emphasize networking and innovation.
What was E3 and what led to its conclusion?
E3, once a major global video game convention showcasing significant releases and bringing together fans, developers, and industry giants, has experienced a decline in prominence due to the pandemic and shifts in publishers’ strategies, resulting in sporadic cancellations as of December 2023.
What does iicon stand for?
iicon is the latest ESA event, offering a unique approach with a focus on innovation and networking among industry giants. Scheduled for April 27-30, 2026 at the Fontainebleau Resort in Las Vegas, this event will showcase renowned companies like Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, Ubisoft, and Electronic Arts.
iicon is a unique event tailored for executives and industry leaders, offering workshops, lectures, and networking opportunities with top professionals in the industry.
Will Iicon truly take the place of E3?
Although iicon has a distinct focus from E3, it indicates that ESA is still keen on staying relevant in the gaming industry, particularly for the technology and business sectors, highlighting its significance for the future of video games.
Paraphrase: Origin