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 accessible 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 underway since mid-2022, it was previously limited to PC players. Xbox and PlayStation users now have the opportunity to enjoy the first new Skate game in over 15 years.

The last installment in the Skate franchise, Skate 3, was released in 2010. Despite a dedicated fanbase, EA seemingly shelved the franchise, focusing on other genres. However, persistent fan support, particularly the #Skate4 hashtag, 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 towards that goal.

Via skate.'s official Twitter account, Xbox and PlayStation players can now participate in the playtest through the skate. Insider program (registration required). 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 replay editor, weren't detailed, the anticipation is building.

Confirmed as a free-to-play, live-service game by EA, details about skate. remain limited. The skateboarding simulator is set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, a work-in-progress inspired by San Vanelona, Port Carverton, and real-world locations. A leaked map from 2023 may offer a glimpse, though significant changes are likely. Fans can register for the playtest or wait for the wider release of skate.

Skate Around in the Meantime

While early access is slated for 2025, delays are a common occurrence in game development. In the meantime, fans can explore other skateboarding games to tide them over until skate.'s full release.