EA Adds Microtransactions To A Game That’s In Early Testing Phase

by

Summary

  • EA’s upcoming skate game is being playtested in a closed alpha with fully functioning microtransactions.
  • Closed alpha participants are testing the purchasing experience with virtual currency called San Van Bucks.
  • The game will be free-to-play upon release and is developed by Full Circle for PC and consoles.

Presently, Electronic Arts’ skate series is undergoing closed alpha playtesting, with the anticipated release slated for some time this year.

In most cases, games undergo testing within restricted circles, so one might assume it’s nothing out of the ordinary. However, what’s surprising is that Electronic Arts (EA) has incorporated operational microtransactions into the game even during its alpha stage.

Latest Update to skate’s Closed Alpha Client Adds Microtransactions

The closed alpha testers of Skate received an email notification (Holiday_Ad9037) about the upcoming update, which explains that they are introducing microtransactions as part of the testing process to evaluate the player’s purchasing experience.

Get ready for thrilling advancements and brand-new material! This includes a range of new products, enhancements, and updated gameplay experiences across San Vansterdam. For all the details, visit our Skate Playtesting Forums to see the complete update rundown.

We’re working hard to make sure your shopping experience at our skate store is enjoyable. In order to meet our objectives during Early Access, we have activated the ability to purchase and utilize virtual currency (San Van Bucks) in our ongoing Closed Alpha playtest. Your input will be invaluable as we strive for an exceptional launch experience at Early Access.”

This version attempts to maintain the original message’s tone while using more natural language that is easier to read and understand.

In the same message, EA clarified that during the playtest, your account progress might occasionally restart. However, before Early Access begins, everything will be reset completely. Any purchases made using San Van Bucks will be transformed back into an equal amount of San Van Bucks and will be waiting in your account at the launch of Early Access.

It’s significant to mention that the game Skate will be free for players upon its release, with microtransactions serving as the primary source of income. However, it feels unusual that microtransactions are already being introduced during a pre-public playtest, rather than prioritizing gameplay development first. To be fair, the game isn’t at a stage yet where developer Full Circle is confident enough to make it publicly available.

The specific date for a public trial run of the game Skate hasn’t been announced yet, but we’re eagerly anticipating it will happen shortly. Developed internally by EA’s studio Full Circle, Skate has officially been confirmed for release on both PC and gaming consoles.

In addition to skateboarding, another series – Tony Hawk’s Pro Skate 3 & 4 – is set to return, with a launch scheduled for July 11 across multiple platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

Read More

2025-03-12 18:12