Okay, technically they're absent with leave. Vivendi and Activision, two major publishers (on the verge of becoming one massive publisher), have "discontinued their membership" with the Entertainment Software Association, and will not be participating in this year's E3 show. Kotaku, breaking the story this morning, received confirmation and a quote from ESA Vice President Rich Taylor:
"While the Entertainment Software Association remains the preeminent voice for U.S. computer and video game publishers, we can confirm that Activision and Vivendi Games opted to discontinue their membership. The ESA remains dedicated to advancing our industry's objectives such as protecting intellectual property, preserving First Amendment rights, and fostering a beneficial environment for the entire industry. Our high level of service and value to members and the larger industry remains unchanged."
Last year's E3, the first since it was revamped by the ESA, was described as "mismanaged" by many journalists. While we may or may not see more publishers making a total break from the association, we can likely expect to see quite a few more who opt to make their own presentations outside of E3 this year.
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