EA adding microtransactions to a game in closed alpha testing? It's happening. Skate playtesters reported that the developers added an in-game shop with San Van Bucks, a premium currency to buy cosmetics.
As reported by Insider Gaming, developer Full Circle is introducing an in-game store that features premium currency. This change aims to enhance the player experience when purchasing items from the Skate store, at least according to Full Circle. The store will be available for players during the early access period of Skate.
The statement does confirm progress might be reset during the closed alpha at any given moment. Furthermore, once Skate reaches early access, all the purchases will be refunded, with players getting back the San Van Bucks they spent. To make use of these when early access rolls around, playtesters need to keep playing using the same account they've been using during this closed alpha period.
If you were wondering why a beloved franchise like Skate needs microtransactions and you're first guess is that EA is turning it into a live-service free-to-play game, you'd be correct.
Skate 4, now only known as Skate, was originally revealed all the way back in 2020. Two years later, the EA CEO stated Skate was "releasing soon." Now, deep into 2025, it's expected that the latest game in the franchise finally see the light of day this year. At least in early access.
The game being a free-to-play live-service game is nothing new or a recent pivot. In 2022, fans had mixed reactions to the news that the fourth mainline entry in the series which has been dormant since 2010 will be going the live-service route.
Despite being under heavy embargo, some playtesters reactions have reached social media. Many are criticizing the developers for emphasizing making an in-game store first rather than fixing core gameplay issues.
Skate is slated for release at some point in 2025. It's coming out on Xbox Series, PlayStation 5, and PC.