Summary
- Console players can now participate in playtesting for skate., the eagerly awaited new addition to the Skate franchise.
- The playtest is accessible through the skate. Insider program for Xbox and PlayStation users.
- skate. is confirmed as a free-to-play game, set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, with more gameplay features expected to be revealed.
Console gamers are finally getting the opportunity to experience skate., the highly anticipated new entry in the beloved Skate series, through a new round of playtesting. Previously, these tests were exclusively available for the PC version since mid-2022, but now Xbox and PlayStation players can join in on the fun, marking the first Skate game release in about 15 years.
The last installment in the Skate franchise was Skate 3 in 2010. Despite a dedicated fanbase, EA seemed to put the series on indefinite hold, focusing instead on FPS, Battle Royale, and live-service games. However, persistent fan support, highlighted by the #Skate4 hashtag, eventually led EA to announce a new dedicated development studio for the series. Last Fall, it was revealed that skate. would enter early access in 2025, and the inclusion of console testing is a promising step towards that goal.
Announced via skate.'s official Twitter account, Xbox and PlayStation players can now participate in the playtest by registering for the skate. Insider program. A brief video clip featuring members of the development team addressed some fan queries, confirming more Black hairstyle options and humorously referencing the initial playtest announcement for "Fall 2024." Although the clip didn't delve into specific gameplay features like the enhanced replay editor, it provided valuable updates.
EA has confirmed that skate. will be a free-to-play, live-service game. Set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, which draws inspiration from San Vanelona, Port Carverton, and real-world locations, the game's map was leaked online in 2023 but may have evolved since then. Fans can either join the playtest or wait for a more accessible release.
Skate Around in the Meantime
While skate. is set to enter early access in 2025, gamers know that development timelines can shift. In the meantime, fans of the genre can enjoy other skateboarding games to tide them over until skate. fully launches.
