The Skate franchise has cultivated a dedicated following over the years, standing out from arcade-style skateboarding games with its more realistic, physics-based gameplay. Since the original Skate launched in 2007, fans of the series have been eagerly awaiting the release of a new installment, particularly on next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 5 (PS5). Much speculation and excitement surrounded Electronic Arts’ announcement that a new Skate game is indeed in development. But the question that many PlayStation owners continue to ask remains: Is Skate available on PS5?
TL;DR
The upcoming game titled simply Skate (often referred to as Skate 4 by fans) is currently in development by EA’s Full Circle studio. While the game is not yet officially released as of the latest update, EA has confirmed that it is intended to be available on multiple platforms, including the PS5. However, there is no specific release date at this time. Gamers can expect a free-to-play model with cross-platform capabilities once it launches.
A Look Back at the Skate Franchise
The Skate series first garnered acclaim for challenging the conventions set by titles like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. Its unique control scheme using thumbsticks for board movement revolutionized how digital skateboarding was perceived. With three main entries released between 2007 and 2010, the franchise became beloved for its authenticity, creative skateparks, and its community of players who valued realism and user-generated content.
After a long silence from EA and frequent calls from fans through social media campaigns and petitions, the franchise was finally revived. EA confirmed in 2020 that a new game, simply titled Skate, was in development, kicking off a wave of excitement across the gaming world.
Current Status of Skate on PS5
To date, Skate is not yet available on the PS5. The game remains in development under a team known as Full Circle—an EA studio built specifically for this purpose. However, EA has publicly committed to a multi-platform launch, and PlayStation 5 is one of the key systems being targeted.
- Confirmed Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S
- Release Date: Still TBD as of the most recent official news cycle
- Free-to-Play Model: EA has confirmed that Skate will adopt a live service, free-to-play format
- Cross-Play Enabled: The game will support full cross-platform play and cross-progression
These details position Skate as a truly modern entry that embraces accessibility, both in terms of platform and pricing. PS5 owners will not only be able to enjoy the title but also participate in seamless online sessions with players on other platforms.
What the Developers Are Saying
Developers from Full Circle have been transparent about the ongoing status of the game, engaging with the community through dev diaries, YouTube videos, and early playtests. Community feedback has been central to the development process, reinforcing the studio’s effort to create a game that stays true to the spirit of the original trilogy.
Interestingly, the team has emphasized that Skate is “not a sequel or a reboot” but rather a fresh take on the series. Set in a fictional city known as San Vansterdam, the game will feature both single-player and multiplayer components, along with a large focus on social interaction and user-generated content—all indicating a robust and dynamic online ecosystem.
This commitment has reassured long-time fans and introduced new ones to a promising outlook for the title. As it stands, the PS5 version will benefit from the console’s hardware in terms of faster loading times, higher frame rates, and smoother gameplay—even if graphical fidelity isn’t the game’s principal focus.
Early Access and Playtesting Opportunities
Although a final release date remains unknown, Full Circle has been hosting closed and open playtests during development. Players on PC have had more access thus far, but the team has confirmed plans to open testing to console users, including PS5, as the game approaches its launch window.
Players can sign up for early playtesting on EA’s official Skate website. This offers fans a chance to experience early builds and contribute feedback directly to the developers. If you own a PS5 and are eager to try the game before launch, this route may become available to you in future phases of the testing program.
Gameplay Mechanics and Features
One of the most exciting components of the new Skate is its expanded user customization and world-building tools. The game will reportedly feature:
- Open-world city with a wide variety of locations, ramps, and secret areas
- Enhanced Flick-It controls optimized for smoother motion and more tricks
- Physics-based interactions that reward creativity and experimentation
- Custom parks and user-generated content that can be shared in real-time
- Live in-game events similar to MMOs or seasonal battle passes
This expansive feature list confirms that EA is aiming to build a continually evolving ecosystem around Skate, rather than delivering a one-time, boxed-product experience. PS5’s architecture is well-suited to handle the dynamic and interconnected nature of the game. Moreover, with player-created parks and new missions being added regularly, long-term engagement is a central part of Full Circle’s vision.
Why the Free-to-Play Model Matters for PS5 Players
For many players, especially in the PlayStation community, the shift to a free-to-play model is both exciting and slightly concerning. On one hand, it opens up the title to a broader audience and removes the usual $60–$70 price tag. On the other, fears around microtransactions and “pay-to-win” mechanics are not unwarranted.
EA has attempted to allay these concerns by assuring fans that Skate will avoid predatory monetization. The focus will be on cosmetic customization options, skate gear, and aesthetic enhancements that do not affect gameplay. This is similar to models seen in successful free-to-play titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends, both of which have found homes on the PS5.
If EA sticks to this promise, PlayStation gamers will enjoy a rich, community-driven game that respects their time and money. Still, the final reception will depend greatly on how well the monetization system is integrated and whether it preserves the spirit of fun and creativity central to the franchise.
Conclusion: Should PS5 Users Be Excited?
While Skate is not available on the PS5 yet, there is a great deal of reason to be optimistic. With its confirmed platform availability, cross-play functionality, and focus on user experience, the latest iteration of Skate promises to be a worthy successor to the beloved franchise. Though development is still ongoing, the transparency and community involvement shown by Full Circle provide confidence that the wait will be worthwhile.
For PS5 users who have been eagerly anticipating a new skateboarding game, the future looks promising. The combination of modern technology, a vibrant online community, and nostalgic gameplay could make this upcoming release a landmark title in the series. Until then, keeping an eye on EA’s official channels for updates, playtest opportunities, and release news is highly advised.
