E3 Live 2016, from the same people who bring you E3, is free and open to the public
If you’ve ever tried to get into E3 without a Press Pass, you might have found out the hard way that it is not open to the public. And no, the guards don’t take bribes (sorry). But, if you really want to be a part of the action, we have good news: a new E3 Live 2016 event this year will let anyone in the local area check out games and meet industry personalities.
E3 Live is described by its organizers – the Entertainment Software Association – as a “new, one-of-a-kind celebration of video games” and “E3’s first-ever gathering for gamers.”  It apparently runs for a limited number of hours on June 14, 15, and 16, is held at LA Live. That happens to be right next to the Los Angeles Convention Center, the site of the real E3. So, while you might not be able to get into E3, this is literally very close. If you’re a minor, though, just know that people under 17 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Tickets are free, but as you can imagine, are “limited” in quantity, according to the organizers. They will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The tickets are not yet available, but you can register here to get dibs on them when they do come out.
According to The E3 Live website, there will be games, gadgets, and gear to check out at E3 2016 Live, as well as music and dance competitions. Also, there will be photo ops, virtual reality demos and merchandise available to buy.
E3 2016 proper takes place June 14-16, and we at COGconnected will be bringing full coverage as always so stay tuned right here. Electronic Arts and Ubisoft will have  their press conferences on June 12, while Microsoft and Sony will follow with shows on June 13. While you’re waiting, check out our man Paul Sullivan’s amazingly-accurate annual E3 Predictions. Hey, he was 80% last year, so this is legit crystal-ball type stuff.