Skate Expands Playtesting to Include Console Players

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 more gameplay features to be revealed.

Console players can finally experience skate., the long-awaited return of the popular Skate franchise, through a new playtest. While playtesting has been ongoing since mid-2022, it was previously limited to PC players. Xbox and PlayStation users now have their chance 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, fueled by the #Skate4 hashtag, eventually led to the announcement of a dedicated development team and the creation of skate. Last fall, early access for 2025 was announced, and this console playtest is a positive step toward that goal.

Via skate.'s official Twitter account, Xbox and PlayStation players can now join the playtest through the skate. Insider program (registration required). A short video featuring developers answered fan questions. While specific gameplay details, such as the replay editor, weren't discussed, they confirmed more Black hairstyle options and playfully addressed the "Fall 2024" playtest announcement.

Confirmed as a free-to-play, live-service game by EA, details on skate. remain limited. The skateboarding sim is set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, a city still under development, drawing inspiration from San Vanelona, Port Carverton, and real-world locations. A map version leaked in 2023, but it's likely undergone significant changes since then. Fans can register for the playtest or wait for wider accessibility.

Skate Around in the Meantime

While early access is slated for 2025, delays are common in game development. In the meantime, fans can explore other skateboarding games before skate.'s full release.