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A few weeks ago it was revealed that Activision had left the Entertainment Software Association, taking Vivendi with it, and we hinted that others might soon be following their lead. Well, it's now been confirmed that LucasArts is the next company leaving the trade group. "Today, we can confirm that one of our members, LucasArts, has decided not to renew its membership," announced ESA spokesman Rich Taylor. "We value each member of our association, but respect the unique factors that led to LucasArts' decision." LucasArts, for its part, has stated that it still supports the ESA's goals in the industry and will still be attending E3. The company has not revealed why it is not renewing its membership and hasn't said if this is in any way related to Activision's decision to opt out of the organization. This is not good news for the ESA by any stretch, and could present a severely damaging financial blow to the trade group, not to mention the harm this will do to its credibility. You can read the full statements from the ESA and LucasArts after the jump.
The ESA: "Since its creation in 1994, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has grown and evolved into the pre-eminent voice of the video and computer game industry. The organization has 25 members, including three companies that were welcomed last year.
"Today, we can confirm that one of our members, LucasArts, has decided not to renew its membership. We value each member of our association, but respect the unique factors that led to LucasArts' decision.
"Last year was a record year for an industry which is becoming an increasingly important part of the nation's social, cultural and economic landscape. We are confident the industry will continue to thrive and ESA will continue to create a beneficial environment for the entire entertainment software industry." -- Rich Taylor, Senior Vice President of Communications and Research, Entertainment Software Association (May 16, 2008)
LucasArts: "We can confirm that LucasArts is no longer a member of the ESA. As a company we are still committed to bringing consumers the best interactive experience possible and support the ESA's mission in the industry. LucasArts will be participating in E3." -- Margaret Grohne, Director, Public Relations
 Article contributed by Jim Sterling
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