I was just reading S_B's comments about E3 and how you guys reacted to that.
While S_B's opinion is far from the gamer norm, he does have a point in that it makes no difference whether you are there or at home. If we were living in an age where the internet didn't exist and there was no way to send up to the minute information, then going to E3 would almost be obligatory. But since we do get all the info we relly don't miss out of much.
On the other hand, S_B, the reason many are looking forward to E3 is because of the thrill of the show. Like being there, actually being there when they make a big announcement, to see the games long before they are release, to meet the celebrities behind the game and many, many more. So to an extend, going to E3 is more than just trying out games for some.
So E3 is like the ying and yang. On one side, it isn't that big of a deal because we always get the info. On the other, it's an unique experience.