EA is returning to its skating roots with the upcoming release of its highly-anticipated title, Skate 4. It boasts several improvements to the classic gameplay experience while introducing new elements that will make even the oldest Skate fans happy.
After over a decade since the release of Skate 3, EA announced a fourth installment in their award-winning franchise, simply called 'Skate.' or Skate 4, was in development. Described as not being a sequel, but rather an individual game with a "forever vision in mind", the developers certainly envision it as one which will be around for a long time to come.
The game is set to be launched across all major platforms such as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and mobile. However, EA has insisted they are aiming to bring Skate 4 to as many platforms as possible, thus opening the door to many more platforms such as the Nintendo Switch.
ICYMI our goal is to bring skate. to as many platforms as possible and allow you to play with your friends wherever they are with cross-play and cross-progression. pic.twitter.com/vR4xXbISl4
— skate. (@skate) February 14, 2024
An interesting facet of Skate 4's development is its huge focus on community engagement. The entire Skate franchise has a dedicated fanbase, and EA appears to be respecting their input as they regularly post videos on the game's development, provide highlights about its playtests, and emphasize the importance of the community's feedback.
With many players looking forward to returning to their favorite skating game franchise, we will provide you with all the details you need to know about Skate 4.
Skate 4's Expected Release Date
Skate 4 is expected to be released in between mid- to late-2025.
The game has been in development since it was first announced in August 2021. Development has been slow in the eyes of the community, as many have since asked if Skate 4 was ever going to be launched.
However, EA has gradually picked up the pace over the years and has offered hopeful players various opportunities to try out the game for themselves, thus leading to a potential global release later in 2025.
Upcoming Skate 4 Playtests
The next console playtest was announced to be taking place in late (Q4) of 2024.
A previous pre-alpha test was available between February 14 and March 4, 2024. During this time, players across all platforms such as PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and mobile were able to participate.
The game has been in its playtesting phase since June 2022. Since then, EA has consistently launched new playtests where players can enjoy the game and provide feedback.
In the meantime, you can pre-register for Skate 4 by visiting the game's official website. Doing so will allow the developers to notify you about any upcoming playtests and game updates.
All Gameplay Elements In Skate 4
Skate 4 will feature intuitive controls which closely resemble those of the previous installments on the PlayStation and Xbox. It has been widely received, however, player responses from the game's playtest indicate the 'Flick-It' controls on mobile seem "weird." We will know for certain once the game is fully released.
Besides this, Skate 4 will reportedly feature cross-play and cross-progression. With cross-play, players using different platforms to play the game can still connect and play with one another simultaneously.
On the other hand, cross-progression enables your progress in Skate 4 to be the same across all platforms, whether it be the Xbox or mobile. This is of course granted if you save your progress and log into the same account.
In episode 5 of The Board Room, the developers shared details about the game's skater customization options. It was revealed that all skaters will be genderless – a first in the franchise's history – and players will be able to outfit them in a variety of clothing and cosmetics. Additionally, there will be various deck art options players can choose from to express themselves.
In total, you can expect the same exciting skateboarding action and difficult challenges in Skate 4, but with improved graphics, physics, customization, gameplay, and more.
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