LucasArts has joined the exodus from the USA's Entertainment Software Association (ESA), making it the third major publisher in as many weeks to part ways with the US games body.

A statement from the ESA's senior VP of communications, Rich Taylor, read, "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."

LucasArts remained diplomatic, with the company's director of public relations, Margaret Grohne, stating, "As a company we are still committed to bringing consumers the best interactive experience possible and support the ESA's mission in the industry." Grohne also confirmed, "LucasArts will be participating in E3."

Several weeks ago Activision and Vivendi both parted ways with the ESA. Neither will be attending E3, which is run by the ESA, this year. The ESA now has 25 members remaining.

If the three companies all parting ways with the ESA in such a short space of time is a coincidence, SPOnG will eat its hat, coat and pointy shoes. Activision and Vivendi, you will remember, are currently in the process of a merger. Activision also has a close relationship with LucasArts as the distributor of its titles in Europe.

It looks suspiciously like either another body is being set up or there's been a major falling out between the ESA and one of the three companies.

^{Source: Joystiq}