EA's Skate Adds Microtransactions Pre-Release

EA has introduced microtransactions to Skate during its latest alpha test, signaling that a release date announcement may be on the horizon. According to Insider Gaming, developer Full Circle has integrated microtransactions into the ongoing closed alpha test of EA's free-to-play Skate revival. Players can now use real-world money to purchase a virtual currency called San Van Bucks, which can then be used to acquire cosmetic items. 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 encourage feedback, stating, "Your feedback will be greatly appreciated in providing a great experience at 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 test will be converted back into San Van Bucks, available again at the start of early access.

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