Skate’s Big Comeback Will Require Big Wi-Fi… For Now

Dust off your helmets, charge your controllers, and—most importantly—pray to the Wi-Fi gods, because Electronic Arts (EA)’s long-overdue reboot of Skate is finally rolling onto the streets. Well… assuming you can stay online long enough to ollie without rubber-banding into a lamppost.

In a move that’ll either thrill you or have you hurling your router out the window, Full Circle—the gang piecing this mad ride together—has announced that Skate will be an “always online” affair. Yes, even if you’re just planning a quiet night of solo kickflips, you’ll still need a steady internet connection. No Wi-Fi? No skating. Tough luck, grandad.

Why all the fuss about staying connected? According to Full Circle, it’s all in service of creating a “dynamic, ever-evolving city,” packed with live events, constant updates, and probably a few broken ankles. It’s not just a game; it’s practically a second job you can’t clock out of.

For those who’ve been playtesting since 2024, this revelation isn’t exactly a plot twist. Full Circle’s been running the servers ragged to prep for launch, ensuring your digital skateboard doesn’t spontaneously combust mid-trick.

As for the full release? Early access is on track for 2025—but EA’s still playing coy about the actual date, much like a skater promising they’ll land that next trick “one more try, bro.”

And because this is EA we’re talking about, there’s a slight sprinkle of microtransactions too. Enter “San Van Bucks”—the in-game currency you can buy with real-world money to unlock all manner of cosmetic flair. Want a skateboard that looks like it was designed by a blind raccoon? There’s probably a bundle for that.

If you’ve already spent money during playtests, don’t panic—those purchases will be refunded in the form of San Van Bucks once the game properly launches. A refund… but make it fashion.

In short: Skate is shaping up to be a chaotic, connected, and occasionally expensive ride. Whether you’re a grizzled skater from the PS3 days or a clueless rookie who thinks a manual is something you read, it’s clear this reboot aims to be bigger, better, and online at all times.

Just don’t blame us if your internet cuts out mid-ollie.