Summary

• Console players can now participate in the playtest for skate., the highly anticipated new entry in the Skate franchise.
• This playtest is available via the skate. Insider program for Xbox and PlayStation players.
• 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 ongoing 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 game 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, notably the #Skate4 hashtag, eventually led to the announcement of a dedicated development team and a new game. Last fall, skate. was announced for early access in 2025, and this console playtest is a positive step towards that release.

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 hinted at more Black hairstyle options and playfully addressed the "Fall 2024" playtest announcement. Specific gameplay features, such as the improved replay editor, remain unconfirmed.

EA has confirmed skate. as a free-to-play, live-service game, but details remain scarce. The skateboarding sim is set in the fictional city of San Vansterdam, a work-in-progress city inspired by San Vanelona, Port Carverton, and real-world locations. While a map leaked in 2023, significant changes are likely. Fans can register for the playtest or wait for the wider release.

Skate Around in the Meantime

While early access is slated for 2025, delays are always a possibility. In the meantime, fans of the genre can enjoy several other skateboarding games before skate.'s full release.