The Activision E3 "media event" at the Staples Center in LA last night was more along the lines of a music festival.
In the preceding days of E3, it was rumoured that the event would cost well over US$6 million. Now that the event has taken place, it's probably safe to say it cost a lot more.
Activision had rounded up some of the hottest music stars on the planet for their shindig, including: Eminem, Rihanna, David Guetta, Usher, will.i.am, Z-Trip, Maynard James Keenan (of Tool), Travis Barker, Jane's Addiction, Chris Cornell, Pharrell Williams of N.E.R.D and Deadmau5.
There was also an appearance from Tony Hawk and a painfully flexible pole-dancer.
However, many in the audience were wondering where all the games were.
Indeed Activision did mention the likes of Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, DJ Hero 2, True Crime: Hong Kong, Call of Duty: Black Ops and Tony Hawk Shred. But the focus was certainly on shear entertainment value, with Activision splicing in live performances with screenshots and game footage in the background.
It does open the door to questions about Activision's deep pockets and the pricing of its releases, but there is no doubt that Activision can put on a show.
NZGamer.com / 3 News