After giving up on E3, the Entertainment Software Association announces a new gaming event, which is planned to take place in 2026.

The Entertainment Software Association's new thing will bring together executives from across the game industry for conferences, workshops, and "elite networking opportunities."

If it can, maybe iicon will avoid the pitfalls E3 did. I, for one, am optimistic. There's nothing like another big competitor entering the ring, and if nothing else, the ESA has a lot to prove with its return to the events sector. It's a big gamble sure, but if there's anywhere such a gamble can pay off, maybe it's Vegas.

The days of trailers and demos are done as the ESA broadens its horizons. The newly minted “iicon” conference will bring together the many industries impacted by video games, from Hollywood to health care.

E3 died back in 2023, when it got cancelled for the last time. But the trade association behind the event, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), has announced a new event to take its place. Well,

After the demise of E3, the Entertainment Software Association announced an invite-only conference aimed at industry elites across entertainment.

Entertainment Software Association (ESA)—still exists. The group is back with a new gaming event, but it's not what you might expect. Called 'iicon' or Interactive Innovation Conference, this event is

The Entertainment Software Association - the trade organisation that represents video game developers and publishers

ESA, the former organizer of the popular gaming conference E3, has announced the launch of a new conference, iicon, running from April 27-30, 2026 in Las Vegas.