E3 2010 attendance hits 45,600
300 exhibitors and visitors from 90 countries attend biggest expo since 2006
A total of approximately 300 exhibitors and 45,600 attendees from 90 different countries visited the recently concluded E3 2010 event in Los Angeles, according to organisers the Entertainment Software Association (ESA).
The figure is a small increase on the 41,000 who attended last year's event, which was the first since E3 returned to a format similar to that seen in the early 2000s. For the 2007 and 2008 events the expo was significantly downsized following concern over costs from exhibitors, with the number of visitors purposefully decreased.
The new format proved unpopular with both the trade and media, and the 2009 and 2010 events have seen a return to many of the excesses of previous years, in terms of extravagant stands and "booth babes". The highest ever attendance for E3 was 70,000 in 2005, when very few limitations were placed on attendees.
"E3 Expo is the global stage for the interactive entertainment industry, and the 2010 show was reflective of our innovation, growth and vitality," said Michael D. Gallagher, ESA president and CEO. "We are thrilled by the positive news generated by this year’s show, and we are looking forward to building on this great momentum for 2011."
"This year’s E3 Expo has again delivered above our expectations," commented Graham Hopper, executive vice president and general manager of Disney Interactive Studios. "With retail participation up 20 per cent, strong international media attendance, partnered with a dynamic show floor environment, E3 Expo has affirmed its status as the cornerstone event for our global video game business."
The E3 2011 event has already been scheduled for June 7 to 9, at the usual Los Angeles Convention Center venue.