Summary
- Console players can now participate in playtesting for skate., the eagerly awaited new game in the Skate franchise.
- The playtest is accessible through the skate. Insider program for Xbox and PlayStation users.
- skate. will be free-to-play, set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, with additional gameplay features expected.
Console enthusiasts can now dive into skate., the much-anticipated addition to the beloved Skate series, through a newly launched playtest phase. Previously, skate. playtests were exclusive to PC users since mid-2022, but now Xbox and PlayStation players can also experience this first new Skate game in about 15 years.
The last installment, Skate 3, was released in 2010. Despite its dedicated fanbase, the series seemed to be put on hold by EA, who shifted focus towards FPS, Battle Royale, and live-service games. However, persistent fan demand, signified by the #Skate4 hashtag, eventually led EA to announce a new dedicated development studio last Fall. skate. is set to enter early access in 2025, and the recent console playtest is a promising step in that direction.
Announced via skate.'s official Twitter, Xbox and PlayStation users can join the playtest by enrolling in the skate. Insider program. A brief video from the development team hinted at upcoming features, including more Black hairstyle options, and playfully mentioned the playtest's initial announcement for "Fall 2024."
EA has confirmed that skate. will be a free-to-play, live-service game. While specifics are still under wraps, we know the game is set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, which draws inspiration from both San Vanelona and Port Carverton, as well as real-world locations. A leaked version of the game's map surfaced in 2023, but it may have evolved since then. Fans can either sign up for the playtest or wait for skate. to become more widely available.
Skate Around in the Meantime
While skate. is scheduled for early access in 2025, delays are not uncommon in the gaming industry. In the meantime, fans of the genre can enjoy other skateboarding games to tide them over until skate.'s full release.
