Crave, Koei, Playlogic Join ESA

The Entertainment Software Association's ranks continue to regenerate after last year's departures, with three new additions -- Crave Entertainment, Playlogic and Koei -- announced today. For Crave, it's actually a return to the ESA, after being one of the companies to depart the association last year. Several publishers and studios, most visibly Activision Blizzard, exited the ESA during the same time period amid issues surrounding membership fees and the viability of the E3 event after its slimmed-down format in 2008 met with a tepid reception. "With the Fillpoint acquisition of Crave Entertainment and SVG Distribution complete, we are excited to be renewing our membership and affiliation with the ESA," said David Burchi, senior VP of content and strategic development at Crave. The ESA's membership has seen numerous new additions including Southpeak, Natsume, Trion, XSeed and 505 Games' North American division in recent months. The uptick in the association's roster follows its decision to revise its membership structure and offer tiers for publishers of different sizes. At the same time, the ESA's also reimagining E3, promising something of a return to the event's former size and spectacle. "Our growing membership is a reflection of the ESA’s valued and successful work on the key public policy issues facing the entertainment software industry," said ESA CEO Michael Gallagher in a statement released today. "Crave Entertainment, Koei and Playlogic are key partners in leading that effort, and I am pleased to welcome them to the ESA."