A Decade and a Half in the Making: ‘Skate’ Returns with a Free Early-Access Launch

For 15 years, fans of the iconic Skate franchise have been waiting patiently for the return of the series, a staple of the skateboarding genre known for its realistic physics and “Flick-It” control scheme. Now, after a long and often-frustrating period of silence, developer Full Circle and publisher EA have officially announced that the game, simply titled skate., will launch in early access on September 16, 2025. This is more than just a comeback; it’s a new beginning. The game will be completely free-to-download and available on a wide range of platforms, making it as accessible as possible for both series veterans and newcomers alike.

A Free-to-Play, Cross-Platform Revolution

The most significant and perhaps most surprising news is the game’s business model. skate. will be a free-to-play, live-service title, with a monetization system focused entirely on optional cosmetics. As confirmed by the developers, there will be no “pay-to-win” elements, and all new gameplay locations and major updates will be free and accessible to all players. This is a bold direction for the franchise, one that is clearly aimed at maximizing accessibility and building a massive, long-term player base. The game will also support full cross-platform play and cross-progression, meaning that players on PlayStation 5 will be able to seamlessly skate with their friends on Xbox Series X|S or PC, with all their progress and unlocks carrying over no matter where they play. This commitment to an inclusive and connected experience is a clear sign that the developers at Full Circle are thinking about the future of the franchise and how to build a community that lasts.

A New City to Explore, a Classic System to Master

The early access launch will give players their first real taste of “San Vansterdam,” a new and vibrant city that is being described as a “massive open world” filled with unique skate spots. The developers have promised that the city will be a living, breathing, and ever-evolving place, with a seasonal model that will introduce fresh challenges, cosmetics, music, and world updates regularly to keep the experience engaging. At the heart of the game is the return of the beloved Flick-It control system, which has been rebuilt and improved using the Frostbite engine to deliver a new level of precision and control. The game will also feature new off-board controls, giving players total freedom to roam, climb, and find epic new spots. In addition, a new feature called “Quick Drop” will allow players to place ramps, rails, benches, and other objects anywhere in the world to create their own perfect spot, a level of customization that is a dream come true for creative players.

The return of skate. is a significant moment for the franchise’s fans who have waited for over a decade. The game’s new free-to-play model, combined with its cross-platform support and a clear focus on community, is a powerful statement of intent from the developers. They are not just bringing the franchise back; they are evolving it for a new generation. The early access launch on September 16 is just the beginning of this new journey, and for fans of the genre, the wait is finally over.