It's looking like this year's Mac World Expo in New York is going to be somewhat watered down. Mac Central reports that the National Mac Gaming Championships are cancelled this year and it has been confirmed that Bungie will not have an exhibit. Many companies are complaining about the increasingly exorbitant prices for booth space at the Mac World Expos and are not planning to exhibit either. Take2 Interactive will be there, however, to show off Oni and a number of Bungie employees will likely be there in personal attendance. Contrary to the Mac Central report I've heard that nVidia will not be exhibiting there but will instead have members on site to meet with the reps from various other companies.

On the bright side, however, we should hopefully have one of the more interesting Gatherings of Fans this coming July. We reported in April that Hamish will be there at MWNY, giving the multitude of Bungiefen a chance to meet him in person. Freewill, the fanfest's organizer, has forwarded us a PR:

The Bungie Fanfest. It is now official! This is taking place during Macworld Expo in New York. Bungie is sponsoring this event. Bungie CEO Alex Seropian, as well as Bungie stalwarts, Matt Soell and Max Hoberman are booked to make an appearance. I have arranged to rent out Neutral Ground, a gaming center located at 122 West 26th Street, 4th Floor, right off of 6th Avenue. Admission is free, but a parent or guardian should accompany anyone under 18. Free pizza and beverages will be served. Many surprises await.More as this develops.

NOTE: Good manners are a prerequisite for attendance.

If you're attending MWNY or are going to be in the area this July, (even if you aren't attending MWNY) and are a fan of Bungie, then make sure you're there. If you have any questions, be sure to contact Freewill as far ahead of time as you can. Freewill reports that there could be a date change - he hopes to have the finalized information to us by Tuesday at the latest. Thanks Free!