The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has confirmed this morning's GamePolitics report, which labeled Crave Entertainment as the latest company to leave the ESA; however, the publisher will still be showing at E3 next month. Crave is responsible for games such as World Championship Poker featuring Howard Lederer and other titles from the D-list (if last year's E3 showing was any indication).
The ESA has released a statement (full text after the break), saying it respects Crave's decision to leave and that Crave representatives say the publisher still remains committed to the goals of the association. Although Crave walking out certainly counts as another publisher leaving the ESA, it feels more like a footnote in the wake of departures by Activision/Vivendi, LucasArts and id.
Statement from the ESA:
"We can confirm that Crave has decided not to renew its membership in the ESA. We value each member of our association, but respect their decision. In conversations with Crave, representatives stated that they value their longstanding membership with the ESA and remain committed to the values and goals of the association."
- Rich Taylor, Senior Vice President of Communications and Research, Entertainment Software Association
