Skate Playtesting Now Includes Console Players

Summary

• Console players can now participate in playtesting for skate., the highly anticipated new entry in the Skate franchise.
• The playtest is accessible through the skate. Insider program for Xbox and PlayStation users.
• skate. is confirmed to be free-to-play, set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, with more gameplay features expected in future updates.

Console players are now invited to dive into skate., the eagerly awaited new addition to the beloved Skate series, through a fresh round of playtesting. Previously, playtests were exclusive to the PC version starting mid-2022, but now Xbox and PlayStation enthusiasts can experience the first Skate game released in about 15 years.

The last installment in the Skate franchise was Skate 3, which hit the shelves in 2010. Despite a dedicated fanbase, EA had seemingly put the series on an indefinite hiatus in favor of focusing on FPS, Battle Royale, and live-service games. However, the persistent demand from fans, evidenced by the #Skate4 hashtag, eventually compelled EA to announce a new dedicated development studio for the franchise. Last Fall, it was revealed that skate. would enter early access in 2025, and the current console testing is a promising step towards that goal.

The playtest announcement came via skate.'s official Twitter account, indicating that Xbox and PlayStation console players can participate by registering for the skate. Insider program. A short video from the development team addressed fan questions, confirming more Black hairstyle options and playfully referencing the initially planned "Fall 2024" playtest.

EA has confirmed that skate. will be a free-to-play, live-service game. Although full details remain under wraps, it's known that the skateboarding simulator will be set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, which draws inspiration from San Vanelona, Port Carverton, and real-world locations. A leaked map from 2023 might have evolved since then, but fans can register for the playtest or wait for broader access to the game.

Skate Around in the Meantime

While skate. is slated to enter early access in 2025, delays are common in the gaming industry. In the meantime, fans of the genre can explore other skateboarding games to keep the thrill alive until skate. fully releases.