Skate is Back: EA Prepares Free Early Access Launch in Early 2025

Last Updated: October 17, 2025

After a 15-year hiatus, EA's iconic skateboarding franchise, Skate, is gearing up for its highly anticipated return. The newly titled skate. (formerly known as Skate 4) is slated for an Early Access launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with an official announcement confirming its arrival in early 2025. This marks a significant moment for fans who have long awaited a new entry in the beloved series.

Players should be aware that this initial release will be an early access version, meaning it will be an unfinished game with potential bugs, incomplete features, and ongoing development. Full Circle, the dedicated development studio behind this revival, has ambitious plans to add substantial content post-launch. This roadmap includes new game modes, an expanded array of tricks, advanced customization options, competitive leaderboards, and enhanced social features like in-game party voice chat, all designed to foster a vibrant and connected player base.

Free-to-Play and Always Online

A notable shift from the original Skate titles is the adoption of a free-to-play business model. Unlike its predecessors, which were premium-priced titles, the new skate. will be free to download and play. This decision aims to open the game up to a much wider audience, allowing players to experience the skateboarding action without an initial financial commitment. EA plans to monetize the game through microtransactions, though specifics regarding these have yet to be fully detailed. It is anticipated these will include cosmetic items, additional content, or other in-game enhancements, a common practice in modern free-to-play experiences. Furthermore, an always-online requirement is expected, a point of discussion amongst fans but standard for many contemporary multiplayer titles, facilitating seamless updates and social integration.

Building on a Legacy

The original Skate trilogy, released between 2007 and 2010, garnered a dedicated following for its realistic physics engine and innovative "Flickit" controls. The games were praised for their responsive gameplay and the sheer creativity they allowed players in pulling off complex skateboarding maneuvers. This new entry aims to build upon that legacy, offering a modern take on the formula while retaining the core aspects that made the series so popular.

The Future of Skate

While the impending early access launch will present a somewhat incomplete experience, the commitment from Full Circle to ongoing development and content updates suggests a bright future for the Skate franchise. The free-to-play model is poised to attract a potentially massive player base, and the promise of regular additions and community-focused improvements should keep players engaged for the long haul. Skaters worldwide are lacing up, ready to drop back into the world of skate. in early 2025.