TwitchCon San Diego Cancelled for 2020

Streaming video games has become a notable form of entertainment, with COVID-19 acting like a double-edged sword for services like Twitch. Consumer engagement during the pandemic increased tenfold for Twitch, with Professional eSports generating viewers from around the world. Fans of Formula One were able to watch drivers like Charles Leclerc dominate over the streets of Bahrain, with Hockey Supporters saw legendary players compete against each other through NHL 2020.

The double-edged sword for Twitch applies to their yearly convention, which was confirmed as cancelled today. PR Representatives clarified that TwitchCon 2020 San Diego has been postponed until next year. Concerns over the novel coronavirus were cited over their decision. Official sentiments noted that large gatherings in the San Diego Region aren’t being permitted, that locals are concerned for an outbreak if this convention is held. These concerns are valid & promoted San Diego Politicians to cancel their contract with TwitchCon for 2020. After this measure was taken, Twitch Executives hadn’t any choice but to terminate the venue.

TwitchCon 2020 was slated to unfold from September 25th to September 27th. Public Relation Representatives with TwitchCon mentioned that organizers are planning a digital venue to combat the closure of their convention. Multiple expositions in the gaming industry have enacted this strategy, with all failing to create similar conditions of excitement that fans are accustomed by. TwitchCon can beat the new normal by imploring notable streamers from their roster. Exclusive streaming events surrounding upcoming & unannounced games would centre TwitchCon as best Digital Convention of 2020.

Additional Cancellations

TwitchCon 2020 San Diego isn’t the exclusive event that was terminated for this year. An additional venue slated for Amsterdam on May 2nd to 3rd was also cancelled by Twitch organizers. Multiple other expositions would follow in their closure status. This includes PAX West, PAX East, E3 2020, and the Games Developer Conference. All organizing personnel for these conventions have expressed their desire to return by 2021. This will be dependent on how the next twelve months unfold with COVID-19. There’s a better chance they’ll return for 2022, with a coronavirus vaccine almost guaranteed in that timeframe.