EA's Skate Introduces Microtransactions Pre-Release

In the latest alpha test of EA's much-anticipated free-to-play Skate revival, developer Full Circle has introduced microtransactions. As reported by Insider Gaming, players can now spend real-world money on a virtual currency dubbed San Van Bucks, which can be used to purchase cosmetic items. Full Circle aims to refine Skate's microtransaction system, expressing a desire for players to have a "positive experience when purchasing items from the Skate store." They've encouraged testers to provide feedback to ensure a great experience when the game hits early access.

It's important to note that Full Circle has informed testers that all progress will be reset before Skate enters early access. However, any purchases made during the alpha test will be converted back into San Van Bucks, ready for use at the start of early access.

Skate's early access launch is slated for 2025. The game was first announced at EA Play back 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 it would be released as a free-to-play title across Xbox, PlayStation, and PC platforms.