When the E3 show floor closes at 7 p.m., the real show is just beginning. The exposition is just as much about the after-hours E3 2018 parties and networking events as the convention itself. We’ve compiled the highlights, for your convenience.
Note that E3 badges are not required unless otherwise noted, and that most of these events require an RSVP.
EA Play
Electronic Arts’ landmark show, showcase and party occurs just before E3 itself, including the company’s game announcements, live demos, music and other community engagement activations. The event is free, but registration is required.
When: June 9, 2 p.m.-8p.m.; June 10-11, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Hollywood Palladium, 6215 Sunset Boulevard
Xbox FanFest
Like EA Play, Microsoft’s FanFest offers up the publisher’s titles and content in a separate location, free of the E3 hustle and bustle. Tickets are $45, but feature guaranteed Xbox E3 Briefing seating, networking opportunities and plenty of party favors.
When: June 10-11, 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
Where: Microsoft Theater, 777 Chick Hearn Court
GGP At E3! Downtown!
Join the Gay Gaming Professionals for “an evening of cocktails and revelry,” giving an inclusionary chance to network with queer members of the game development community.
When: June 11, 7 p.m.-2 a.m.
Where: Redline Gay Bar, 131 E 6th St
Fortnite Party Royale
An invite-only party centered on the free-to-play battle royale sensation, though Epic Games has been tight-lipped on details. Interested Fortnite fans can enter to win tickets by coming by the game’s booth on the E3 show floor.
When: June 12, evening
Where: Pick up tickets at booth #2723 at the LA Convention Center
AdColony Margarita Mixer
Mobile advertising firm AdColony is hosting a small networking event at Rosa Mexicano, promising margaritas, Mexican food and mingling. The event is currently fully booked, but there’s always the chance to slip in in case of no-shows.
When: June 12, 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Where: Rosa Mexicano, 800 West Olympic Blvd
PlayStation LGBTQ Party
PlayStation and the LA Gayming Society are hosting a party and networking event devoted to inclusion in gaming, both in the profession and hobby. Attendees will have the chance to play Sony games and win PlayStation systems and peripherals.
When: June 12, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.
Where: Precinct DTLA, 357 S Broadway
WIGI E3 Networking Party
A non-profit promoting diversity in game development, publishing and media, WIGI is hosting a networking event featuring performers from The Magic Castle, LA’s best-known (and likely only) magician-exclusive nightclub.
When: June 13, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.
Where: Exchange LA, 618 S Spring Street
Into The Abyss
Pearl Abyss, the developer of Black Desert Online, is hosting its first-ever company event, featuring a Q&A panel, drinks, snacks, giveaways and “other goodies.” It also takes place in a movie theater.
When: June 13, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Regal Cinema LA Live, 1000 W Olympic Blvd
Netmarble/Kabam VIP Happy Hour
To celebrate Netmarble’s new office in Los Angeles, the company is hosting a happy hour at Karl Strauss Brewing Company, featuring free drinks and appetizers.
When: June 13, 4 p.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Karl Strauss Brewing Company, 600 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 100
E-Coliseum X UMV E3 After-Party
The world’s first esports gym is hosting an afterparty for the convention, in partnership with UMV, ULT, DXRacer and Philadelphia Fusion, featuring free food and drinks.
When: June 13, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.
Where: E-Coliseum, 1006 S Olive Street
