Capcom isn't the only Japanese developer to be gun-shy about this year. Yokohama-based company Koei is also preventing staffers from attending the Los Angeles gaming convention.
Unlike Capcom's decision to restrict travel of all Japan-based employees, Koei is sending a limited number of its Japanese developers to this year's E3. "With regards to E3, due to the current nature of and concern over the Influenza A (H1N1), KOEI has reconsidered international travel," the company told Kotaku.
"As a result, there will be a limited number of staff from the company's Yokohama-based headquarters attending this year's show. However," the company added, "members from our Toronto studio, KOEI Canada, will be at E3 to speak about a new title that will be publicly unveiled at the show." Think of that new game as a consolation prize.
DISCUSSION
The silliness of this is preposterous considering how many people go between Japan and the US regularly.
As for Capcom... if Japanese Capcom doesn't want to do the shit themselves then just give it to Capcom US and be done with it. This things aren't physical. Pipe that shit over VPN and be done with it! Fucking grow a pair people!
I don't know if Koei has an American presence (I assume they do), the need to do the same.