EA's Skate Adds Microtransactions Pre-Launch

EA has introduced microtransactions to the latest alpha test of its highly anticipated free-to-play Skate revival, signaling a significant development ahead of an official release date announcement. According to Insider Gaming, developer Full Circle has integrated a virtual currency called San Van Bucks into the closed alpha test. Players can purchase these bucks with real money to acquire cosmetic items, aiming to refine Skate's microtransaction system. Full Circle emphasizes its goal to ensure a "positive experience when purchasing items from the Skate store," and actively seeks player feedback to enhance the game's early access launch experience.

The developer has made it clear that all progress in the alpha test will be reset before Skate enters early access. Any purchases made during the alpha will be converted back into San Van Bucks, ready for use when early access begins. This move is part of Full Circle's strategy to test and perfect the game's economic system before its broader release.

Skate's early access is slated for 2025, a timeline that was first hinted at during EA Play in 2020, when the game was described as being in its "very early" stages of development. Since then, Full Circle has engaged the community through closed playtests and updates in their "The Board Room" video series. In 2022, the game was officially named 'skate.' and confirmed to be a free-to-play title available on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.

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