ESA: E3 To Return In 2009

Despite high profile criticism from a number of publishing execs, E3 organizer the ESA has announced that the show will return in 2009, though the organization has yet to announced what changes might be made in response to the latest industry reception. Shortly after the close of E3, executives like Electronic Arts CEO John Riccitiello and Ubisoft North America president Laurent Detoc were quoted as disagreeing with the format of the 2008 show, with Riccitiello stating “I hate E3 like this,” and Detoc calling the show "terrible." Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter, too, criticized the Summit's format, saying it was "headed for extinction," "ill-timed" and ultimately alienated the media, retailers, and analysts alike. Pachter suggested that the show should come no later than early June, and needs more spectacle, surprises, and investor access to management to restore its relevance. While no exact changes have been announced, an ESA representative talking to consumer site GameSpot has said that "as we do every year, we're beginning the process of surveying exhibitors and attendees to determine potential changes to the Summit." The representative at very least confirmed that the show will return for another year, concluding that once the above was completed, "we will make an announcement about the specifics of the 2009 E3 Media & Business Summit, which will occur."