Today the organizers behind SXSW, an multimedia exhibition that has also included a gaming expo, announced today that the conference will return in 2021 and will include a new all digital segment. The 2021 exhibition will be known as SXSW Online. The event will take place from March 9 to March 11.
SXSW Online does not, however, mean the end of the physical version of the show for 2021. According to the press release sent today, SXSW organizers are still working with city of Austin, Texas officials regarding their plans for a 2021 physical event as well. Updates on the progress of that event are not yet ready to be shared. Many cities are still waiting to see how COVID-19 will progress (or not) this fall and winter.
Here is what the CEO and co-founder of SXSW, Roland Swenson had to say about the announcement of SXSW Online:
| “The challenge of building a new future is one that we’re excited to tackle. This has been such a year of change and we, like the entire world, are reshaping our perspective on how we connect. We’re pleased to introduce SXSW Online as part of our program for 2021, and regardless of platform, we will continue to bring together the brightest minds from creative industries worldwide.” |
2020’s SXSW was cancelled, like many other physical events, due to the outbreak of COVID-19. In previous years the exhibition was generally a place where Sega enjoyed announcing news regarding Sonic the Hedgehog, which may be explanation for why Sega has been so mum about their biggest franchise lately.
