The echo of skateboard wheels on concrete, the satisfying scrape of a tailslide, the inevitable crunch of a failed trick—it’s a symphony that gamers have been missing for over a decade. After years of teases, community feedback, and building anticipation, the iconic skate franchise is finally, officially, making its return. EA and developer Full Circle have officially announced that the simply titled skate. will roll into Early Access on September 16, 2025.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment for fans who have been following the project's unique development journey, which has prioritized community input from the very beginning. Moving to a free-to-play model, the team aims to build a persistent and ever-evolving skateboarding playground for a global audience.
A New Era for a Beloved Franchise
The original skate. series, known for its innovative "FlickIt" controls and gritty, authentic portrayal of skateboarding culture, concluded with 2010's skate. 3. Since then, the demand for a true successor has been relentless. Full Circle, a studio built around a core team of veteran developers from the original titles, was formed with one mission: to bring it back the right way.
"This isn't just a sequel; it's the next evolution," said a representative from Full Circle. "By going free-to-play, we're removing the barrier to entry and creating a foundation where we can grow, change, and build the world alongside our players for years to come."
What to Expect in Early Access
The September Early Access launch is positioned as the first real chance for a wider audience to get their hands on the game. It will be available exclusively on PC via the EA app, Epic Games Store, and Steam, as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The team is clear that this initial release is a foundation, not a final product.
Players can expect core gameplay featuring the refined FlickIt controls, a portion of the game's open world—the vibrant and sun-drenched San Vansterdam—and a suite of social and customization features. The focus will be on testing server stability, gathering feedback on progression, and observing how players naturally interact and create together in the plaza.
The decision to start with a smaller-scale Early Access reflects Full Circle's commitment to its community-driven philosophy. The developers have stated they plan to use this period to "listen, learn, and iterate" before a full-scale worldwide launch.
In their official press release, which details the roadmap and vision for the coming months, EA and Full Circle reiterated their commitment to building a inclusive and positive experience for everyone.
Building San Vansterdam, Together
Central to skate.'s identity is its world. San Vansterdam is a fictional city built from the ground up for skating, packed with iconic spots, hidden gems, and smooth lines waiting to be discovered. During Early Access, players will be instrumental in shaping this world. Feedback on spot design, terrain, and overall flow will directly influence future updates and expansions.
The free-to-play model is supported by a deep customization system. Players will be able to express their unique style through a vast array of clothing, deck designs, grip tape, and hardware for their skater, all earnable through gameplay or optional purchases that are strictly cosmetic.
The Road Ahead
The September 16 date is just the starting line. The Full Circle team has a detailed content plan that will unfold throughout the Early Access period, with regular updates introducing new features, events, and areas of the city. This approach ensures the game remains fresh and dynamic, responding directly to how the community plays and what they ask for.
The hype train is officially leaving the station. Mark your calendars, dust off your virtual boards, and get ready to finally say the words we've all been waiting to hear: See you in San Vansterdam this September.
For the full official announcement, including statements from the development team and details on the upcoming closed playtests, you can read the full press release here.