The New E3, Formerly 'GamePro Expo', Now 'E f...

The New E3, Formerly 'GamePro Expo', Now 'E for All Expo'

Entertainment for All Expo... E for All... E4... yep, this sure is a better name for the future replacement of the once-glamorous E3 Expo, than the previous title "GamePro Expo" suggested by IDG last year. Although I still think that "Booth Babes for All" would have been a much more catchy name. Regardless, it's official, and it's pretty much final: a few days ago, the International Data Group (IDG) announced that the official name of its newest event will be "Entertainment for All Expo" - or "E for All Expo" - and confirmed that it will be held during October 18-20, 2007, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The new name was chosed from among over 3000 entries submitted on the GamePro.com website, and the winning entry was proposed by a certain Dante Padre bloke from California. When asked what inspired his name submission, Mr. Padre said:

"This show seems to be about inviting everyone to participate; they even asked gamers to create the name. Unlike other industry-only events, this show is for everyone. Now everyone will have the opportunity to experience the excitement, the entertainment, and the early look at the industry that's only been available to insiders before."

Obviously, IDG conveniently found a perfect explanation for the "E for All" name as well:

"The new name highlights the show's focus on entertainment and its openness and accessibility to the public. Building on momentum and pent-up demand that has grown within the consumer audience for all things related to computer and video games, event organizers anticipate its mid-October dates will launch an early holiday shopping season for the industry. The new name also reflects the cross-pollinization between traditional and digital entertainment - the reason behind establishing the show in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world."

The annoucement goes on to say that "E for All" will offer consumers the opportunity to test-drive the latest in games and gadgetry, as well as purchase products they enjoyed over the course of the 3-day event at on-site retail facilities. Additional attractions are in the works, including high-profile videogame tournaments; job fair / networking opportunities; family-friendly offerings; and the acclaimed Video Games Live concert. The Expo will also take advantage of soon-to-be-expanded LA Live area adjoining the LA Convention Center and Staples Center.

The show's new website is EforAllExpo.com, where a notification reads that "Registration for this event will open in the Spring of 2007".

Remind me to take a holiday in October, I fear for my mental well-being.

(N.B. Archive text, links removed)