Nintendo is making out its absence from E3 2023

Nintendo is formalizing its absence from E3 2023. Other events are yet to take place.

Nintendo has decided not to participate in this year’s E3. “We consider our attendance at any event on a case-by-case basis and always consider different ways to engage our fans,” Nintendo Engadget said in a statement. “Because this year’s E3 exhibition did not fit into our plans, we have decided not to participate. However, we have always been and remain big supporters of ESA [Entertainment Software Association] and E3.”

Nintendo is making out its absence from E3 2023

Nintendo is used to having a presence on the E3 stage, in particular hosting Treehouse broadcasts throughout the event, as well as the Direct. Big N competed in the last edition worthy of the E3 name in 2019, as well as the all-virtual 2021 edition. There was no E3 in 2020 or 2022.

A few days ago, IGN reported that Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony have decided not to participate in E3 this year. Sony hasn’t appeared there since 2018, but Japanese giants like Redmond have yet to officially confirm their absence from this year’s edition. In any case, this summer Microsoft will hold a big annual event in Los Angeles. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer recently hinted that this would likely happen around the same time as E3, which runs from June 13-16.

Other events still need to take place

Around the middle of June, there could still be a Nintendo Direct, even if it’s not officially tied to this big gaming event. At the same time, there are rumors that just before E3, PlayStation is preparing a big show that could be appreciated after this week’s lackluster State of Play.

The absence of just one of the three gaming console giants at E3 is detrimental to the ESA, but the absence of all three at the same time should have serious consequences. Summer Game Fest should also outshine this E3 2023. At least Ubisoft will be there.