It seems like old news now, but the announcement of the effective cancellation of E3 is apparently not done sparking its share of new headlines. According to a press release from the Consumer Electronics Association, the guys in charge of putting on CES, they are exploring the possibility of producing their own video game show.

This isn't wild speculation, folks. They've put together an entire committee to discuss the matter. From the press release: "Since ESA decided to eliminate the E3 event in its known format, we have been deluged with inquiries on whether we could fill the tradeshow needs of smaller video entertainment companies," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA. "Our executive board met yesterday and unanimously asked staff to explore ways that we can help the gaming community."
As a matter of fact, CES played host to the largest video game expo in the country before the start of E3 in 1994. Karen Chupka, an executive in charge of CEA events, had this to say: "We enjoy creating new marketing opportunities for this category. With the growth in on-line PC gaming and the rush to HD gaming, we see an opportunity to create a fresh event aimed at this market. We already have commitments from three companies in this area to provide us advice on a new event in late spring 2007."

Since the E3 fallout, several people have wondered if CES would soon follow in its footsteps. However, given this news, it seems that the CEA is really devoted to these large, glitzy trade shows, so we may not see that happen. I'd be very interested to see a duel of the trade shows between CES's new venture and the rebranded E3 Media Festival. We'll keep you posted.

Via Engadget

Report Published by: Mark Raby