On June 12, gaming’s biggest show returns for its strangest year yet, but what exactly will happen at the first virtual E3? Here’s everything we know along with our expert analysis.
For completely understandable reasons, E3 didn’t happen in 2020. We received plenty of game news throughout the summer, but it didn’t happen under the familiar banner that’s hyped gamers since 1995. In 2021, E3 returns for what might be the most unpredictable show yet. Starting June 12, E3 2021 will be an entirely virtual event, already a huge change from prior shows. Instead of press and fans playing games on the show floor, we’ll all watch the happenings via live streams. Also, with the games industry still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, many games that might have otherwise been ready to make their grand debuts have likely been delayed. Still, E3 is all about seeing new video games for the first time, something that will definitely happen at E3 2021. Here’s what to expect from the major players. What to Expect From Microsoft (6/13,1 p.m. EST) New Xbox Game Pass Additions: Microsoft may have just launched two next-gen consoles, the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, but its real flagship product is the Xbox Game Pass subscription service. Expect Microsoft to spend much of the show explaining how it’s adding even more value to what’s quickly becoming the Netflix of video games. Exclusive games, simultaneous launches, and maybe a new platform? Game Pass is already on phones, so perhaps it’s time to bring the service to Nintendo Switch. Phil Spencer’s shelf holds the answer. Halo Infinite News: The new Xbox consoles were supposed to launch with a new Halo game. That didn’t happen. Instead, Microsoft delayed Halo Infinite to give 343 Industries more time to polish what seems to be an ambitious, open-world take on the classic shooter. A great Halo game will sell Xbox consoles this holiday season. We just need to see the game’s scope and improvements. Bethesda News: E3 2021 will be Microsoft’s first E3 since acquiring Bethesda, a developer with more than enough games to sustain its own conference. Elder Scrolls 6 and the new Indiana Jones game are probably too far away to talk about, but we’re very confident that Starfield, a sci-fi RPG, will make its full debut. We’re also holding out hope for Wolfenstein 3. Another Acquisition: After spending billions on Bethesda, Microsoft may not have much appetite to acquire another large studio.
