EA's Skate Adds Microtransactions Pre-Launch

EA has introduced microtransactions to Skate during its latest alpha test, signaling a move towards a release date announcement. As reported by Insider Gaming, Full Circle, the developer behind EA's free-to-play Skate revival, has integrated a virtual currency called San Van Bucks into the ongoing closed alpha test. Players can use real-world money to purchase these bucks, which can then be spent on cosmetic items within the game. Full Circle aims to refine Skate's microtransaction system, emphasizing their desire for players to have a "positive experience when purchasing items from the Skate store." They've encouraged testers to provide feedback to enhance the experience at the game's early access launch.

Full Circle has also informed testers that all progress will be reset before Skate enters early access, and any purchases made during the alpha will be converted back into San Van Bucks, available again at the start of early access.

Skate's early access is slated for 2025. Initially announced during EA Play in 2020, the game was described as being in its "very early" stages of development. Since then, Full Circle has maintained engagement with the community through closed playtests and updates via their "The Board Room" video series. In 2022, the developer officially named the game 'skate.' and confirmed its release as a free-to-play title across Xbox, PlayStation, and PC platforms.