Nintendo has confirmed that it won't be attending this year's E3. The Mario and Pokemon company issued a statement after earlier reports stated none of the big three game publishers would attend E3, including both Microsoft and Sony.
"We approach our involvement in any event on a case-by-case basis and are always considering various ways to engage with our fans," Nintendo said in a statement (via Venture Beat). "Since this year’s E3 show didn’t fit into our plans, we have made the decision to not participate. However, we have been and continue to be a strong supporter of the ESA and E3."
IGN first reported Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo wouldn't make it to E3 this year, although Nintendo is the first to confirm this. Sources speaking to VGC stated that Nintendo decided to skip E3 simply because it didn't have enough games to show, and one could certainly interpret today's statement as a tacit admission that is in fact the case.
Ubisoft will be there, although it's expressed doubt it'll even happen without the big three present. E3 organizer ReedPop issued a statement to The Verge last week saying the show will go on with or without Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony.
"E3 is full speed ahead and we are pleased with the progress and engagement from the community," said ReedPop president Lance Fensterman. "As we have confirmed exhibitors we are eager to share more as details get cemented and participants ready their own detailed plans."
If E3 does happen, then we could be in for some pretty big announcements. Konami is reportedly expected to be present and might even announce the long-rumored Metal Gear Solid 3 remake as well as a new Castlevania game. And Ubisoft is reported to be reviving a "neglected" single-player franchise, with fans hoping for a new Driver game. We know it won't be Rayman or the rumored Splinter Cell remake, so set your expectations appropriately and take everything you hear with a hefty grain of salt.