EA’s Skate 4 Set to Release Early Access in 2025

EA’s long-awaited Skate sequel, officially titled “skate.” (yes, lowercase with a period), more commonly known as Skate 4, is set to enter early access in 2025, marking the series’ return after 15 years.

we're incredibly stoked to announce that skate. will be launching in Early Access in 2025. we'll share more details on what to expect in the coming months. pic.twitter.com/ZbFL3WycWu

— skate. (@skate) September 17, 2024

For context, the Skate series debuted in 2007, quickly drawing comparisons to the iconic Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise. However, it distinguished itself by using the innovative “Flick-it” control system, which relies on analogue sticks for executing tricks, offering a more grounded and realistic approach to virtual skateboarding. Over time, the series carved out its niche thanks to its fluid mechanics, immersive environments, and physics-based gameplay.

While games like Session: Skate Sim and Helskate have attempted to push the genre forward, fans have longed to return to Skate’s signature style. With Skate 4 (skate.) now on the horizon, the classic skateboarding experience is about to make a significant comeback.

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What We Know So Far About Skate 4 (skate.)

Free-to-Play, Live-Service Model and Customisation

Firstly, one of the most notable aspects of Skate 4 is its departure from traditional game releases. According to EA, the game will be a free-to-play, live-service title, a decision that has raised some eyebrows but also promises a continuously evolving experience.

In addition, EA has assured fans that, despite the monetisation model, the game will stay true to its roots by focusing on creativity, fun, and community-driven content. Players can access the full entertainment without upfront costs, with cosmetics and other non-essential items available through in-game purchases.

Regarding cosmetics, customisation is also a highlighted aspect of Skate 4, allowing players to modify their skater’s appearance, skateboard setup, and even objects from the globe. In true live-service fashion, most in-game activities would reward players with unlockable items, meaning every trick and challenge can lead to further personalisation.

The Return of the Replay Editor and Additional New Features

In the lead-up to its early access release, EA has teased several features available in Skate 4. For instance, many fan-favourite elements from previous games are returning, such as the iconic Replay Editor. Given the increasing integration of social media into gaming, this feature will likely take on an even more significant role, allowing players to share their best tricks and bails with the broader community by editing, sharing, and streaming their best tricks across various platforms.

Besides the Replay Editor, Skate 4 welcomes back the “Flick-it” system, one of the backbones of Skate’s success, giving players analogue stick control over tricks, making every movement feel rewarding. For Skate 4, the developers have reworked this core mechanic, improving accuracy and control. Expect an evolved version of the system aimed at making tricks more satisfying stunts while staying true to the series’ roots.

Lastly, unlike previous entries, Skate 4 will feature a seamless, open-world environment set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam. As the game’s priority hub, players can expect to skate across different terrains, discover hidden spots, and unlock new challenges. Early previews also suggest that the world will be highly customisable, allowing players to add objects and ramps to their favourite locations.

It coincides with the developer’s promise that “almost everything you do in the game will earn you rewards”, as EA stated: “The team is also hard at work to give you the tools to have fun your way, by yourself or with friends, anywhere in San Vansterdam. Almost everything you do in the game will earn you rewards, so you can customise your character, set up, and even unlock new objects to place and skate in San Van.”

Parting Notes

The revival of the series Skate comes at an exciting time for skateboarding games. For example, Tony Hawk also hinted that he’s working on a new game with Activision, fueling speculation that the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series could return after a five-year hiatus. If true, 2025 could see a resurgence of the skateboarding game genre, with Skate 4 and a potential new Tony Hawk title competing for players’ attention.

With early access set for 2025, fans won’t have to wait too long to get their hands on the next chapter in the Skate franchise. More information will be released in the coming months, including details on how the live-service model will function and what players can expect from early access.

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