E3 2017 is open to the public, departing from its standard exclusivity to game developers, industry affiliates, and game journalism partners.
Following the success of last years E3 Live event that opened some festivities to the public, E3 and the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) have decided to let the public in full force.
The announcement came from the official E3 twitter, with a video sharing that a limited amount of tickets will go on sale February 13th at 12 ET/9 AM PST. Tickets will be $149.99 for the first 1,000 tickets while the remaining 15,000 tickets for $249.99. For comparison’s sake, that’s roughly on par with a major music festival.
Welcome back, consumers. Consumer passes go on sale Feb. 13. https://t.co/upcqHeX3V7 #E32017 #E3isComing pic.twitter.com/exwi9PgiD4
— E3 (@E3) February 8, 2017
This year’s tickets will allow players to access the show floor, as well as special events in the neighboring LA Live, such as “gamer events and discussions with leading video game figures”.
While figures like IGN’s Alanna Pierce are happy with the integration of both players and press, others have voiced concerns about lines being too long, notably referencing that last year’s Zelda: Breath of the Wild line reached up to 3 hours long. Regardless the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) is still providing emphasis to its industry and media partners “still have[ing] a central media and business component including a dedicated entrance and VIP Business Lounge”.
I am 100% cool with E3 being open to the public. It means I get to meet more of you excellent people and share that E3 excitement in person!
— Alanah Pearce (@Charalanahzard) February 8, 2017
Regardless, E3 is still going to be bringing some of the latest and greatest video game announcements and technology to consumer eyes. You’ll still have press conferences before the show opens, headlined by Microsoft, Ubisoft, and Sony, and EA will have their EA Play evenet as well.
E3 will be take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, with various fesitivies next door at LA Live, from June 13th to the 15th.
Is everyone pumped for E3 2017 this year? Let us know in the comments below if you’ll be attending!
