E3 2021 Recap: Biggest Announcements & Highlights

E3 2021: A Look Ahead to E3 2022

The opening of E3 2021 was notably marked by announcements concerning E3 2022. As Mayor Eric Garcetti stated to attendees, anticipation is building for an in-person event in the “City of Angels” next year.

It’s logical that organizers prioritized this announcement. The 2021 iteration of E3 represented a significant departure from the norm, mirroring the unprecedented circumstances of the past year and a half.

The Challenges of a Virtual Event

Following the cancellation of the 2020 show, E3 proceeded with its first – and currently last – entirely virtual presentation.

While a virtual event seemed promising in concept, its success varied considerably. Factors such as content quality played a crucial role. Certain events, like CES, faced difficulties due to their scale and the nature of the showcased products.

However, E3 benefits from inherent advantages. The show has evolved beyond a strictly industry-focused event, gaining broader public interest. Local residents in Los Angeles anticipate E3 annually, with many expressing excitement about upcoming reveals.

A Strong Online Presence

Consequently, the show’s online reach is substantial. Leading up to the event, E3-related content dominated online trends, with viewers engaging with trailers, streaming reactions, and debating announcements.

This level of engagement is particularly noteworthy given the industry’s recent success, even before the release of the latest Xbox and PlayStation consoles, amidst the pandemic.

Microsoft Takes the Lead

Among the major players, Microsoft emerged as the clear victor. Sony’s absence from the event meant they couldn’t compete, while Nintendo delivered a solid, though not groundbreaking, presentation.

My previous coverage detailed the strengths of the Xbox press conference. Microsoft’s success stemmed from both the sheer number of games showcased and the prominence of titles available through Game Pass. This subscription service appears to be a key differentiator for the current console generation.

Sony will likely host its own virtual event soon, but matching Microsoft’s impact will be a considerable challenge.

Game Pass and the Bethesda Acquisition

Microsoft unveiled 30 games, including a new refrigerator, with 27 of these titles confirmed for Game Pass. This underscores the company’s commitment to its subscription model. The event also highlighted the significance of the Bethesda acquisition to Xbox’s future.

Nintendo and the Switch Pro

Regarding Nintendo, expectations centered on the rumored Switch Pro. The original Switch is four years old and ripe for a substantial upgrade, beyond the Switch Lite and battery-enhanced refresh.

A high-definition screen would undoubtedly be a popular addition. However, the Switch experienced a remarkably successful 2020, boosted by the release of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, a game that resonated with audiences during the pandemic.

Potential supply chain constraints may also be influencing Nintendo’s timing. While the Switch Pro seems likely, its release may be delayed until next year.

Upcoming Nintendo Titles

The sequel to Breath of the Wild was showcased, offering a glimpse of what’s to come. Several other promising titles were also revealed.

• Metroid Dread: A return to classic 2D side-scrolling action.
• Game & Watch: Zelda: A retro handheld featuring classic Zelda games.
• Shin Megami Tensei V: A long-awaited installment, teased since 2017.
• Mario Party Superstars: Arriving October 29, featuring 100 mini-games.
• Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania: Launching October 5, delivering the signature Super Monkey Ball experience.

Updates were also provided for titles from Square-Enix, Ubisoft, Capcom’s Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin and Resident Evil Village.

That concludes our overview. We anticipate returning to Los Angeles next year. Perhaps, however, a different choice of celebratory attire would be appropriate (a playful remark directed at the Mayor).