The wait is finally over. After 15 years, the Skate series is back with Skate Early Access, bringing a fresh take on the franchise. This time, it’s free-to-play, online, and packed with seasonal updates. Players can join in from September 16, 2025, with insiders already enjoying an early preview.
If you’re wondering how to access the game, what’s included, and what the future looks like, here’s a complete guide.
Skate Early Access Release Date and Time
Skate Early Access goes live on September 16, 2025. The global launch times are:
- US East Coast: 1PM ET
- US West Coast: 10AM PT
- UK: 6PM BST
- Japan (Tokyo): 2AM JST, September 17
- Australia (Sydney): 3AM AEST, September 17
Platforms – Where You Can Play
Skate Early Access supports full cross-play and cross-progression on:
- PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
- PC (via Steam, Epic Games, or EA App)
Mobile (iOS and Android) is planned for later in 2025 but not included in the initial launch.
How to Access Skate Early
The game is completely free to download on launch day. Just grab it from your platform’s store and sign in.
- If you signed up as a Skate Insider before June 27, 2025, you already have early access through the Insider Preview.
- New sign-ups are closed, but everyone can join from September 16 onwards.
What’s Included in Early Access
While not the full version, Skate Early Access packs plenty of features:
- San Vansterdam Map – A massive city with 4 neighborhoods, each with unique skate spots.
- Multiplayer & Solo Play – Cruise alone or join friends in challenges and Throwdowns.
- Quick Drop Creation – Place ramps, rails, or creative props in real time to build new skate spots.
- Character Customization – Clothing, boards, hats, and accessories.
- Replay Editor – Record, edit, and share your biggest tricks with the community.
- Licensed Soundtrack – A mix of curated tracks, with more to come in seasonal updates.
Core Gameplay Features
- Flick-It System Returns – The signature Skate control system rebuilt in Frostbite.
- Customization Options – Adjust camera, controls, and skate settings to match your style.
- New Off-Board Mechanics – Climbing, scaling, and jumping expand vertical gameplay.
- Creative Freedom – Build challenges, explore hidden lines, and skate San Van your way.
Skate Roadmap – Year One
Skate is built as a live service game, with new updates rolling out every season. Here’s what to expect:
Every Season Includes:
- New skateable areas
- Seasonal events
- Brand partners & cosmetics
- Music tracks & challenges
- Bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements
Season 1 (Oct 2025):
- Events: Skate-o-Ween, 7-Ply Maple Harvest
- Skate Pass launch
- HUD & PC improvements
Season 2 (Dec 2025):
- New co-op game mode
- 2 seasonal events
- Party voice chat
- New tricks: Impossibles & improved Handplants
- Replay editor upgrades
Season 3 (And Beyond):
- Leaderboards
- Open world collections
- More character slots (tattoos, etc.)
- Player-created parks
- Darkslides & improved Footplants
- New game modes
Skate Early Access FAQ
Is this Skate 4?
Yes, it’s the next major entry in the series, but officially titled skate. It’s not a remake or reboot.
Is it coming to Nintendo Switch 2?
Not at launch. Future support is uncertain.
Will it release on mobile?
Yes, iOS and Android versions are planned later in 2025.
How much does it cost?
The game is free-to-play. It includes microtransactions for cosmetics and a Skate Pass with free and premium reward tracks.
Skate Early Access marks a new era for the franchise. With cross-play, evolving seasonal content, and community-driven development, it’s more than just a comeback – it’s a living skateboarding world.
Whether you’re chasing tricks solo, building spots, or joining friends in San Vansterdam, Skate’s Early Access is just the start of something big.
These are the key highlights of Skate Early Access. For complete details, visit the official Skate blog.