E3 2021 is free "for all attendees," ESA confirms following paywall rumors

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has confirmed that E3 2021 will be a free event despite recent rumors to the contrary. It's further clarified that no portion of the event will require payment.

"E3's 2021 digital show is a free event for all attendees," the organization wrote in a tweet sent out Thursday. "We're excited to fill you in on all the real news for the event very soon."

Earlier on Thursday, VGC reported that some portions of E3 2021, which is confirmed to be a digital event, could be tucked behind a paywall. ESA has since responded to that report directly, with a spokesperson telling VGC: "I can confirm on behalf of the ESA that there will be no elements at E3 2021 that will be behind a paid-for pass or paywall."

Of course, it's possible that the ESA had been considering making parts of E3 2021 paid experiences - VGC's report references on-demand game demos and a $35 "premium package" for special access - but it's clear now that there won't be any paid elements of the showcase.

Until then, check out all of the new games of 2021 and beyond that we can't wait to check out.

After earning an English degree from ASU, I worked as a corporate copy editor while freelancing for places like SFX Magazine, Screen Rant, Game Revolution, and MMORPG on the side. I got my big break here in 2019 with a freelance news gig, and I was hired on as GamesRadar's west coast Staff Writer in 2021. That means I'm responsible for managing the site's western regional executive branch, AKA my home office, and writing about whatever horror game I'm too afraid to finish.