When it came to video game conventions, the E3 used to be considered the Mack Daddy. Somewhat akin to Cannes for the movie industry, this elaborate showcase is now a shadow of its former self.

It was decided last year to shrink the event.

“Over the years, it has become clear that we need a more intimate program, including higher quality, more personal dialogue with the worldwide media, developers, retailers and other key industry audiences,” said Doug Lowenstein, ESA president at the time.

1UP has a full listing of this year's E3 exhibitors – all 33 of them. Last year's convention had more than 400, with all the pomp and circumstance of the Academy Awards.

Notables at this year's event, which has been moved to July from May, include Activision, Atari, Microsoft, Electronic Arts, Capcom, Take-Two, Sony Online Entertainment and Vivendi Games. 1UP has a full listing, which is missing big names like NVIDIA and Blizzard along with the usual round up of indie creators, as 1UP points out.

I understand the idea behind the leaner, meaner conference. There's nothing wrong with getting back to the basics. But, still, it won't seem the same watching the action unfold without all the pomp, circumstance and unique moments.

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Labels: doug lowenstein, e3, microsoft, Nintendo, sony