Summary
- Console players can now participate in the playtest for skate., the highly anticipated new entry in the Skate franchise.
- This playtest is available via the skate. Insider program on Xbox and PlayStation consoles.
- skate. is confirmed to be free-to-play, set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, with further gameplay details to be revealed.
Console players can finally experience skate., the long-awaited addition to the popular Skate franchise, through a new playtest. While playtesting has been ongoing since mid-2022, it was previously limited to PC. Xbox and PlayStation players now have the opportunity to try the first new Skate game in over 15 years.
The last Skate game, Skate 3, launched in 2010. Despite a dedicated fanbase, EA seemingly shelved the franchise, focusing on other genres. However, persistent fan support, particularly the #Skate4 hashtag, ultimately led to the announcement of a dedicated development team and the creation of a new game. Last fall, skate. was announced for early access in 2025, and this console playtest represents significant progress toward that release window.
Via the official skate. Twitter account, Xbox and PlayStation players can now register for the playtest through the skate. Insider program. A short video featuring the development team confirmed more Black hairstyle options and playfully addressed the "Fall 2024" playtest announcement. While specific gameplay features, such as the improved replay editor, weren't detailed, the anticipation is high.
EA has confirmed skate. as a free-to-play, live-service game, but details remain limited. The skateboarding sim is set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, a work-in-progress inspired by San Vanelona, Port Carverton, and real-world locations. A map leak surfaced in 2023, but its accuracy regarding the current game is uncertain. Fans can either register for the playtest or wait for wider accessibility.
Skate Around in the Meantime
While early access is slated for 2025, delays are always a possibility. In the meantime, fans of the genre can explore other skateboarding games before the release of skate.
