EA's Skate Adds Microtransactions Pre-Launch

EA has introduced microtransactions to Skate during its latest alpha test, signaling a step closer to the game's 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 goal to ensure players have a "positive experience when purchasing items from the Skate store." They are keen on gathering player 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. Any purchases made during the alpha test will be converted back into San Van Bucks, which will be available again when early access begins. This move is designed to maintain fairness and ensure that all players start on an equal footing when the game officially launches into early access.

Skate's early access is slated for 2025. The game was first announced during EA Play in 2020, described as being in the "very early" stages of development. Since then, Full Circle has kept the community engaged through closed community playtests of early builds and regular 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.

Are you interested in playing EA's new Skate? Let us know your thoughts!