New Skate Game Heading to Steam Too

Exciting news for skateboarding game enthusiasts as EA and Full Circle announce that the new Skate game is officially coming to Steam. Players eager to get a taste of the action won't have to wait long: a six-week playtest on PC is set to begin on February 6, 2023, accessible through the EA app. Additionally, the announcement promises that console playtests will be rolled out later in the year for both PlayStation and Xbox systems.

The developers are designing Skate not as a direct sequel to previous entries but as a standalone platform that will grow over time. In a notable move, particularly amidst various industry controversies, this game will be free-to-play but will not feature pay-to-win mechanics, ensuring an even playing field for all players. Instead, monetization will focus exclusively on non-essential cosmetic items, avoiding putting any gameplay areas behind paywalls. Players will have the opportunity to skate around in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, promoting an immersive and fair experience for everyone.

As of now, there is no official release date for the new Skate game. However, the upcoming playtests should provide players with a preview of what's in store and give the developers feedback to polish the game before launch.

The Skate series, developed by EA Black Box and later Full Circle, made its mark in the gaming world with the release of the original "Skate" in 2007. Its innovative control system, known as "flick it" controls, allowed for a more authentic skateboarding experience in comparison to other skateboarding games at the time. The last installment, "Skate 3," was released in 2010, and fans have been eagerly awaiting the next iteration of the skateboarding franchise. With a pledge towards fair play and expansion over time, the newest Skate game seems poised to revitalize the beloved series and introduce it to a new generation of players.