Skateboarding Returns: EA's Free Skate Game Launches in Early Access
After a 15-year hiatus, EA's iconic skateboarding franchise, Skate, is back. The newly released Skate game is available now for free on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. However, players should be aware that this is an early access release, meaning it's an unfinished version of the game with potential bugs and missing features. Full Circle, the developer, has plans to add substantial content post-launch, including new game modes, tricks, leaderboards, and improved social features like party voice chat. This marks a significant departure from the original Skate titles, as this iteration is free-to-play and always online, monetized through microtransactions.
After fifteen years of anticipation, EA has finally released a new entry in its celebrated Skate series. The aptly titled Skate offers a welcome return to the skateboarding simulation genre, and best of all, it's free. Available immediately on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, this latest installment marks a bold new direction for the franchise.
Early Access and Ongoing Development
It's crucial to understand that the current release is an early access version. This means that players should expect to encounter bugs, incomplete features, and potentially some rough edges in the gameplay experience. Full Circle, the development team behind this revival, is committed to a post-launch content roadmap designed to significantly expand the game's offerings. This includes the addition of several new game modes, a broader range of tricks and customization options, and the implementation of competitive leaderboards to encourage player interaction and competition.
Social features are also slated for improvement. Currently missing is an in-game party voice chat system, a common feature in modern multiplayer games. Full Circle plans to add this functionality, along with other community-focused features, to enhance the social aspect of the game and foster a more connected player base.
Free-to-Play Model and Monetization
A notable shift from the original Skate trilogy is the adoption of a free-to-play business model. Unlike its predecessors, which were premium-priced titles, the new Skate is free to download and play. This decision opens the game up to a much wider audience, allowing players to experience the skateboarding action without an initial financial commitment. However, EA will monetize the game through the sale of microtransactions. While the specifics of these microtransactions have not yet been fully detailed, it is likely they will offer cosmetic items, additional content, or other in-game advantages.
The always-online requirement, a point of discussion amongst fans, remains in place. This means players will need a persistent internet connection to access and play the game. While this decision might be unpopular with some players who prefer offline single-player experiences, it is a common practice in many modern free-to-play titles and allows for easy implementation of updates and multiplayer functionality.
A Look Back and Forward
The original Skate trilogy, released between 2007 and 2010, garnered a dedicated following for its realistic physics engine and innovative gameplay mechanics. The games were praised for their responsive controls 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.
While the early access launch presents 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 opens the door for a potentially massive player base, and the promise of regular additions should keep players engaged for months, if not years, to come.