After GDC and other video game-related events were postponed or canceled due to concerns regarding the ongoing Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak, it was obvious that fans might be afraid that E3 2020 could also get affected. However, the Entertainment Software Association, which organizes E3, confirmed that the event is still “full speed ahead”.
That said, due to the continuous outbreak of the virus, the city of Los Angeles declared a state of emergency yesterday. Due to this scenario, the ESA released a new statement again saying that they are “monitoring and evaluating” the situation. The organizers will keep a close eye on the situation via the CDC and WHO, but the event will still go as planned as of right now.
"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," the ESA said. "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."
According to LA’s coronavirus website, there are very few known cases of Covid-19 in the state. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti confirmed yesterday that an emergency was declared because is "allows the city and county to qualify for additional funding needed to prepare for Covid-19 in the future, if such funds are needed at all.” The website also advised people to follow healthy hygiene practices like regularly washing their hands for at least 20 seconds, avoiding touching their face with unwashed hands and to stock up on food, water, medical supplies, and emergency kits.
Do keep in mind that this situation can change in the future. E3 2020 is over three months away, if the outbreak doesn’t slow down, many companies might decide to pull out from the event as they did with GDC 2020.
So what do you think? Do you think E3 should go as planned? Do you think it might be best to hold off this year? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
