Skate Game Demands Constant Internet Connection

EA's much-anticipated revival of Skate will require an "always on" internet connection, a detail that has sparked both excitement and concern among fans. In an updated FAQ on the official blog, developer Full Circle provided a clear stance on this requirement: "The game and city are designed to be a living, breathing massively multiplayer skateboarding sandbox that is always online and always evolving." This means players will experience dynamic changes, from evolving city landscapes to live events and various in-game activities, ensuring a fresh and interactive gaming environment.

An "always on" requirement signifies that Skate cannot be played offline, even for those who prefer solo play. Full Circle emphasized the necessity of an internet connection "to deliver on [its] vision of a skateboarding world." The developer noted that this should come as no surprise to those who have participated in their playtests, particularly the Always-On Playtest that began in September 2024, designed to test the game in a perpetual live environment with servers running continuously.

Scheduled for an early access launch in 2025, Skate has been in development since its announcement at EA Play in 2020. Full Circle has kept the community engaged through closed community playtests and recently introduced microtransactions. Players can use real-world money to purchase a virtual currency called San Van Bucks (SVB), which can then be used to acquire cosmetic items. The developer aims to refine the microtransaction system during these playtests, ensuring a "positive experience when purchasing items from the Skate store."

Full Circle acknowledged the unusual nature of using real money in a playtest but believes it's crucial for assessing and adjusting the system before the official launch. They reassured players that any changes in prices or other elements during the playtest are part of the process. Moreover, participants will receive the equivalent amount they spent in SVB when the game resets for the Early Access launch, ensuring fairness and satisfaction among the community.