EA Sneaks Microtransactions Into Skate Alpha Test Ahead of 2025 Release

EA has quietly introduced microtransactions into the closed alpha test for Skate, its upcoming free-to-play revival of the beloved franchise. Players can now spend real-world money on a virtual currency called San Van Bucks, which is used to purchase cosmetic items in the in-game store. According to developer Full Circle, the test is meant to ensure a “positive experience when purchasing items” ahead of the game’s early access launch in 2025.

While Full Circle assures testers that all purchases will be refunded in San Van Bucks upon launch, the move raises concerns about how aggressively EA plans to monetize Skate. Fans have already been skeptical of the free-to-play model, and this early implementation of microtransactions suggests EA is eager to capitalize on in-game spending before the game even hits early access.

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