EA Introduces Microtransactions in Skate Alpha

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Indeed, they’ve done it once more! Before the much-anticipated Skate reboot had even begun, Electronic Arts has introduced microtransactions. In the recent Closed Alpha update, gamers can now spend real funds on in-game currency to acquire cosmetic items. The creators assert this is merely a test, but it’s already causing quite a stir among players. Here’s all you need to know about the latest Skate updates.

Skate Fans Have Waited for Years

For Skate enthusiasts, it’s been a lengthy journey so far. EA initially unveiled the game back in 2020, labeling it as an early development project. Since then, supporters have been on tenterhooks for updates, though progress has moved at a deliberate pace. With a projected launch slated for 2025, the countdown to release is nearly complete – however, not without stirring up some debate.

In the most recent Closed Alpha phase, microtransactions were incorporated prior to the game’s Early Access release. Now, players have the option to purchase in-game currency called San Van Bucks, which can be used to acquire cosmetic items. Electronic Arts claims this is simply a trial run aimed at ensuring a seamless experience at launch. Nevertheless, some enthusiasts are concerned that this could indicate a heavily monetized future for the much-anticipated free-to-play game.

A Free Ride With A Price?

When the game “Skate” is released on PC and consoles, it will be completely free for everyone to play. However, similar to many modern games, Electronic Arts (EA) plans to rely on additional purchases through microtransactions to support the game’s operations. At this moment, these transactions are only for cosmetic items. Despite this, players have expressed concerns since history has shown that microtransactions can easily become excessive. On a positive note, any purchased items will transfer over from Early Access to the full game, provided players use the same Electronic Arts (EA) account.

Skate is, in my opinion, one of the greatest games ever made, even surpassing Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. I apologize to Mr. Hawk for this statement. It’s fortunate that we have Skate available to us, and the fact that it’s free is a bonus. However, the inclusion of ads or microtransactions seems logical in such a game. But what I can’t comprehend is fully functional microtransactions, especially in an alpha version of the game. It appears that the monetization aspect has been completed before the rest of the game itself. I find it hard to understand why an alpha needs microtransactions at all.

The River of Broken Games

This situation reminds me of the old tale of the Scorpion and the Frog, where EA offers, “See that river? Hop on my back, I’ll ferry you safely to the other side.” Our response might be something like, “I don’t think so. You just want my money – drain it all, leave me with nothing for future games. Once I’m broke, why would you bother improving it then?” They promise they wouldn’t do such a thing, as it would lead to their downfall too. However, as we reach the middle, an unsettling feeling of weightlessness spreads through our hands – our wallet seems lighter. It is then that we understand, with a heavy heart, that they have taken every last penny from us.

In a raw mix of anger and sadness, I exclaim, “How could you do this? You’ve doomed us both! Your stock, just like our faith, is sinking into the abyss, never to recover!” We find ourselves plummeting into the ruins of a shattered Skate world, where everything around us crumbles, riddled with glitches and distorted physics. The last gasp of EA echoes through the void – a hollow, empty apology: “I’m sorry, but I couldn’t help it. It’s just my nature.

Which side are you on – Team Skate or Team Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater? Are you looking forward to the latest Skate game, even with its inclusion of microtransactions? Share your thoughts below!

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2025-03-14 14:39