E3 to modify format or cancelled for 2009

Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) just hauled over 58K attendees. A proposal has now been submitted to ESA to open E3 to the public (which would most likely satisfy criteria 2). There are also indications from developers to potentially skip E3 altogether and participate in PAX instead. There are now more pressure for ESA to do something different for E3 or discontinue E3 to just focus on "E for All".

http://news.bigdownload.com/2008/09/03/will-e3-2009-be-open-to-the-publi...
http://www.planetxbox360.com/article_4548/Will_the_Penny_Arcade_Expo_Rep...

FYI, the ESA has not yet released their statement confirming this. Newsweek Update: "Post a story, and all of a sudden, more sources jump out of the woodwork, to say nothing of similar stories from competing outlets. We've spoken with four additional sources since our original post went live, and it appears that our original source's statement that there would be an extra two days specifically set aside for the public--Friday June 5th and Saturday June 6th--may have been incorrect. We're working to pin that down, and as soon as we find out, we'll whip up another post. Separately, we're also looking to gather information about what criteria the ESA will use to admit a broader audience than it has to the previous two E3s, and to find out--as one journalist asked us privately and as many fanboys would like to know--whether the infamous booth babes of years past will make a comeback of their own. Stay tuned."

ESA has an official press release (http://www.theesa.com/newsroom/release_detail.asp?releaseID=38)

Washington, DC – October 22, 2008 – The 2009 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) will take place from June 2-4, 2009, at the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC), the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) announced today. The expanded E3 will welcome all qualified computer and video game industry audiences, including international and U.S.-based media, analysts, retailers, developers and business partners to preview the latest in interactive entertainment and technology.
“Video games are the fastest growing and most compelling sector of the entertainment industry. And, this upgraded event will reflect the growth, innovation and excitement of our industry,” said Michael D. Gallagher, CEO of the ESA, which represents US computer and video game publishers and organizes the annual event. “The breadth, scope and quality of the changes made to the show will make E3 the must-attend event of the year.”
“The E3 Expo will be the pre-eminent North American gaming show next year. The new, larger event is better for industry leaders and for serious gamers,” commented John Riccitiello, CEO of Electronic Arts.
After conducting both qualitative and quantitative research, ESA officials stated changes were necessary to better meet the needs of both exhibitors and attendees— these changes include increased booth sizes, increased qualified audiences, and an intensified focus on reinforcing the high-octane growth, innovation, and captivating entertainment that are driving the computer and video game industry.
“The video game business will be twice as big in 2009 as it was in 2006 when we had the last real E3 Expo - so get ready for some fireworks!” said Laurent Detoc, president of Ubisoft North America. “The changes made will ensure that the 2009 E3 Expo conveys the best of what makes us proud as entertainment leaders.”
ESA also said IDG World Expo, whose principals have operated E3 since its inception in 1995, will produce the event with the ESA.
The event will be open to ESA members and non-members alike. Organizers noted they are expanding the list of companies eligible to participate. Companies involved in console, PC, online, and mobile game publishing and developing, qualified business partners, as well as makers of video game hardware and peripherals can exhibit.
Additional details, including registration, hotel and travel accommodations, and media credentialing, will be forthcoming in the next few weeks and will be available at www.e3expo.com.