EA has recently introduced microtransactions into the latest alpha test of their highly anticipated free-to-play revival of Skate. According to reports from Insider Gaming, developer Full Circle is integrating a virtual currency named San Van Bucks into the game. Players can use real-world money to purchase these bucks, which can then be used to acquire various cosmetic items. Full Circle aims to refine the in-game purchase system, ensuring 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 informed testers that all progress will be reset before Skate transitions into early access. However, any purchases made during the alpha test will be converted back into San Van Bucks, which will be available again when early access begins.
Skate's early access launch is scheduled for 2025. The project was first unveiled during EA Play in 2020, described as being in its very early stages of development. Since then, Full Circle has maintained regular communication with the community through closed playtests of early builds and updates 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 platforms.
