ELSPA welcomes focus on local events in wake of E3

ELSPA is remaining quiet on the issue of the new format E3, with managing director Michael Rawlinson simply taking the opportunity to highlight the significance of UK trade events.

"E3 has provided a showcase for the computer and videogames industry to the whole world," Rawlinson said.

"Gaming is now ubiquitous and events, both consumer and trade, have been established that reflect the needs of both local and regional markets."

Rawlinson went on to observe that the UK games industry now has two events on the calendar. Those include the Edinburgh Interactive Entertainment Festival, due to take place in August, which he believes will "take a uniquely cultural look at games.

"We are delighted that in October we will see the first London Games

Festival," Rawlinson continued, "Celebrating interactive entertainment and offering business, media and consumer events that will provide the UK and European industry the opportunity to speak directly to its diverse audiences."

ELSPA has previously backed the UK Pavilion at E3, and last year the association launched its new Year Book, an information booklet about the UK games industry, at the event. It remains to be seen whether ELSPA will seek involvement in the new, smaller scale E3, which is currently scheduled to take place next July.