Because to Nintendo’s decision, EVO 2022 will not feature any Super Smash Bros. games.

At a move that will mark the first time since 2007, Nintendo has decided that no Super Smash Bros. game will be included in EVO 2022, the world’s largest fighting game competition, which is currently owned by Sony, for the first time.

Earlier this week, EVO released on Twitter a letter from the company confirming the news ahead of the EVO 2022 announcement presentation, which will take place on March 8 at 5pm PTT/ 8pm ET.

pic.twitter.com/7YEX1ZgG4W

— EVO (@EVO) February 26, 2022

EVO 2022 announcement show, which will take place on March 8 at 5 p.m. PST, according to EVO. Despite the fact that we are grateful for all of the incredible games that will be joining us later this year in Las Vegas, we want to let you know in advance that Super Smash Bros. will not be making a return appearance.

“EVO’s events have produced some of the most memorable Super Smash Bros. moments in history since 2007.” Unfortunately, Nintendo has decided not to continue that tradition with us this year, which we regret. It is our goal that, in the future, we will be able to celebrate the Super Smash Bros. community alongside them.”

Nintendo’s decision not to participate in EVO comes as a result of Sony’s acquisition of the fighting game event in 2021. Nintendo stated at the time of the acquisition announcement that it wished the show’s organizers the best of luck and that it would continue to evaluate EVO in the years to come. That choice appears to have been made, at least for the time being. Possibly contributing to the decision is Nintendo’s partnership with Panda Global to host the first officially sanctioned Super Smash Bros. eSports events in North America, which will take place in November.