Remember that little slice of Blogspot where your opinions on video games sit snugly nestled among the branches of ranty trees made out of writing? Did you ever use it to get a press pass for E3? Because chances are you won’t be pulling that again unless you invest all your life savings in Google ads for it. Or rather, all your future earnings because let’s face it, who has life savings anymore?
Yes, the E3 Media Team has announced that E3 will now be accessible to online media outlets with a certified 8k monthly impressions only. Certified by whom? Compete.com, xinureturns.com, Quantcast.com, and Alexa. At the same time.
“We require that sites be fully launched, operational for six months, and that the website receives a minimum of 8,000 monthly unique impressions as a baseline for each media badge issued,” the email sent out to prospective applicants read.
Implications for Smaller Blogs and Websites
There is, of course, a considerable degree of criticism leveled their way, not least the actually pretty valid accusation that this will only allow big sites to grow and smaller ones to wither. Smaller blogs and websites, which often provide unique and diverse perspectives on gaming, may find it increasingly difficult to gain access to such high-profile events. This could lead to a homogenization of the media landscape, where only the largest and most commercially successful voices are heard.
For instance, consider a small indie game blog that has been operational for just under six months and is slowly building a dedicated readership. Despite the quality of its content, it would be excluded from E3 under the new rules. This could stifle the growth of new voices in the gaming community and limit the diversity of opinions and coverage available to readers.
The Balance Between Quality and Accessibility
On the other hand, the E3 Media Team’s decision is not without its justifications. The event is one of the largest and most significant in the gaming industry, attracting thousands of attendees and generating substantial media coverage. By setting a threshold for media access, the organizers aim to ensure that the event is covered by established and reputable outlets, thereby maintaining a high standard of journalism and reporting.
However, this approach raises questions about the balance between quality and accessibility. While it is important to maintain high standards, it is equally crucial to provide opportunities for emerging voices and smaller outlets. One potential solution could be to offer a limited number of passes specifically for smaller blogs and websites, allowing them to participate and contribute to the event’s coverage without compromising on quality.
Moreover, the reliance on metrics from Compete.com, xinureturns.com, Quantcast.com, and Alexa may not fully capture the influence and reach of smaller outlets. These platforms primarily measure traffic and impressions, but they do not account for the engagement and loyalty of a site’s readership. A smaller blog with a highly engaged audience may have a more significant impact than a larger site with less engaged readers.
There is also the argument that if they just let anyone in, they’d have some sort of PAX on their hands, and who wants that? PAX, or the Penny Arcade Expo, is known for its more inclusive approach, allowing a broader range of media and fans to attend. While this inclusivity is one of PAX’s strengths, it also presents challenges in terms of managing the event and ensuring quality coverage.
The E3 Media Team’s new policy on media access reflects a broader trend in the industry towards prioritizing established and commercially successful outlets. While this approach has its merits, it also risks excluding smaller and emerging voices, which are essential for a diverse and vibrant media landscape. Finding a balance between quality and accessibility will be crucial for the future of events like E3.
Via Joystiq
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