What is Skate 4 Release Time and Date?
Skate 4, officially titled “skate.” (lowercase with a period), launched in Early Access on September 16, 2025, marking the triumphant return of EA’s beloved skateboarding franchise after a 15-year hiatus. The game went live at 5 PM GMT and 1 PM EDT, with staggered regional release times to ensure smooth server performance across the globe.
The Early Access version is available on PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S, with mobile platforms planned for a later release. This free-to-play skateboarding experience supports full cross-play and cross-progression, allowing players to skate together regardless of their chosen platform.
Why Did Skate 4 Take So Long to Release?
EA’s decision to revive the Skate franchise came after years of passionate fan campaigns and the famous “Make Skate 4” movement. The original development team at EA Black Box was disbanded after Skate 3’s release in 2010, leaving the series dormant for over a decade.
Full Circle, a new Vancouver-based studio under EA’s umbrella, was specifically created to handle this highly anticipated project. Led by Daniel McCulloch, former Head of Xbox Live at Microsoft, the team includes original Skate creators Deran Chung and Cuz Parry, ensuring the authentic skateboarding experience fans remember and love.
The extended development time allowed Full Circle to completely reimagine the franchise for modern gaming, incorporating advanced physics, improved multiplayer capabilities, and extensive community-driven content creation tools.
How to Access Skate 4 Early Access
Global Release Schedule
- North America: 1 PM EDT / 10 AM PDT (September 16, 2025)
- Europe: 5 PM GMT / 6 PM CET (September 16, 2025)
- India: 10:30 PM IST (September 16, 2025)
- Australia: 3 AM AEST (September 17, 2025)
Platform Availability
- PC: Steam, Epic Games Store, EA App
- PlayStation: PS4, PS5 (rare early access exception for Sony)
- Xbox: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
- Mobile: iOS and Android (coming post-launch)
System Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel i5-6600k / AMD Ryzen 3 3100 | Intel i7-9700 / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| GPU | GTX 1050 Ti / RX 460 (4GB) | RTX 3060 (12GB) / RX 6600 XT (8GB) |
| Storage | 25 GB | 25 GB |
| DirectX | 12 | 12 |
| Internet | Required | Required |
Tips and Best Practices for Skate 4 Beginners
Master the Core Mechanics
- Use Session Markers: Press Up on D-Pad to set restart points for practicing specific tricks or lines
- Control Your Momentum: Use the X button to build speed before attempting ramps or rails
- Perfect the Flick System: All tricks depend on precise right analog stick movements – practice makes perfect
Essential Movement Techniques
- Off-Board Parkour: Learn to run, jump, and climb when not skating – it’s surprisingly fast for traversal
- Manual Control: Hold manual position to firecracker down stairs or maintain combo multipliers
- Pre-Wind Spins: Twist shoulders before popping for faster 360s and higher-scoring aerial maneuvers
Multiplayer and Social Features
- Party Mode: Invite up to 4 friends using the left D-pad menu for collaborative challenges
- Cross-Platform Play: Add friends via EA ID regardless of their gaming platform
- Session Sharing: Use the replay editor to capture and share your best tricks with the community
Progression Strategies
- Start with basic ollies and build complexity gradually
- Focus on clean landings rather than attempting advanced tricks immediately
- Explore all four neighborhoods in San Vansterdam to discover unique skate spots
- Participate in seasonal events and challenges for exclusive rewards
- Experiment with character and board customization to express your style
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the full release of Skate 4?
The full release is expected in 2026, approximately 6-12 months after Early Access. Full Circle plans to use community feedback to refine gameplay, add features, and optimize performance before the complete launch.
Is Skate 4 free to play?
Yes, Skate 4 is completely free-to-play with optional cosmetic microtransactions. Players can unlock most customization items through gameplay, with premium options available for purchase to support ongoing development.
Can I play Skate 4 offline?
No, Skate 4 requires a constant internet connection as it’s designed as an always-online multiplayer experience. The game features persistent servers where players can encounter others organically while exploring San Vansterdam.
What platforms support cross-play in Skate 4?
Cross-play is supported across PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. The game also features cross-progression, allowing you to continue your progress when switching between supported platforms.
What new features are coming during Early Access?
Full Circle has outlined a comprehensive roadmap, including Season 1 (October 2025) with Halloween events and quality-of-life improvements, Season 2 (December 2025) adding co-op modes and new tricks like impossibles, and Season 3 (2026) introducing player-created skate parks and leaderboards.