Skate Reboot Requires Persistent Online Connection

EA's eagerly awaited Skate revival mandates a continuous internet connection.

In a revised FAQ on the official blog, developer Full Circle stated, "No offline mode is available," explaining: "The game and its city are crafted as a dynamic, ever-evolving multiplayer skateboarding sandbox that remains constantly online. You’ll witness major updates, such as city transformations over time, alongside smaller features like live events and in-game activities."

This "always on" requirement prevents offline play, even for those avoiding multiplayer or preferring solo sessions. Full Circle emphasized that an internet connection is essential "to realize [its] vision of a vibrant skateboarding world."

"This likely isn’t surprising for playtest participants," the developer noted.

In September 2024, the team launched its Always-On Playtest, which "evaluates the game in a continuous live environment with servers operating 24/7."

Skate’s early access debut is slated for 2025, though a specific release date remains unconfirmed. Initially revealed at EA Play in 2020, the project was described as being in "very early" development. Since then, Full Circle has engaged the community through closed playtests of early builds and, last month, introduced microtransactions.

Players can use real money to purchase San Van Bucks, a virtual currency for acquiring cosmetic items. Full Circle aims to refine Skate’s microtransaction system, emphasizing a "seamless and positive purchasing experience in the Skate store."

"Incorporating real money in a playtest is unconventional, but we believe it’s the most effective way to evaluate and fine-tune the system before launch," the team shared in today’s blog update. "Price adjustments or other changes during testing are expected. Any funds spent during playtesting will be credited as San Van Bucks (SVB) upon the Early Access reset."