EA's New Skate Game Adds Microtransactions During Closed Alpha Testing

The free-to-play title, still without a release date, introduces in-game currency for cosmetic purchases as part of its ongoing development.

Microtransactions have been introduced in the Closed Alpha of EA's upcoming Skate game, allowing players to purchase cosmetic items using an in-game currency called San Van Bucks.
The game, developed by EA's Full Circle studio, has been in development for five years and is planned as a free-to-play release for PC, consoles, and mobile platforms.
Players participating in the Alpha can spend real money on San Van Bucks, with the currency being refunded to their accounts upon the game's Early Access launch, though real-money refunds will not be provided.
Full Circle stated that testing microtransactions during the Alpha is intended to ensure a smooth purchasing experience in the final release, with player feedback being actively sought.
Skate does not yet have a confirmed release date, but it is expected to launch in some capacity later in 2025.