What's Happening?
The long-awaited new installment of the Skate video game series is set to launch in early access on September 16, 2025. The game, titled 'skate.', will be available for PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and the EA app. The early access version will be free, offering players a glimpse into the open-world setting of San Vansterdam. The game features four distinct neighborhoods and a storyline involving the collapse of the corporate anti-skateboarding overlord M-Corp. Developed by EA's new studio, Full Circle, the game will be a free-to-play live service title with microtransactions.
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Why It's Important?
The release of 'skate.' marks a significant moment for fans of the Skate series, which has not seen a new installment since 2010. The game's return in a free-to-play format reflects the growing trend of live service games, which offer ongoing content updates and monetization through microtransactions. This model allows developers to engage players over a longer period and generate revenue beyond initial sales. The game's open-world design and storyline may attract both long-time fans and new players, potentially revitalizing interest in the skateboarding genre and influencing future game development strategies.
What's Next?
As 'skate.' enters early access, player feedback will be crucial in shaping the final release. The developers may use this feedback to refine gameplay mechanics, address bugs, and enhance the overall experience. The game's success could lead to additional content updates, expansions, or sequels, further expanding the Skate franchise. The industry will watch closely to see how the free-to-play model performs in terms of player retention and revenue generation, potentially influencing other developers to adopt similar strategies for their games.
