Skate’s Mixed Reception in the Live-Service Landscape
In an era where franchises are increasingly embracing online capabilities, even traditionally single-player titles like Pokémon have introduced features such as Tera Raids to keep players engaged. Skate, the latest entry in the beloved skateboarding series, has also ventured into this territory, but not without facing its share of challenges. Despite the growing trend of live-service games, Skate has garnered ‘mixed’ reviews on Steam, with many players expressing dissatisfaction with its implementation of these modern gaming elements.
As of now, Skate has accumulated nearly 6,000 reviews, with a mere 46% of them being positive. While expectations were tempered given its early access status, comparisons to its esteemed predecessors have surfaced, and the current feedback does not favorably reflect on the game.
The launch day was marred by server issues, as the game experienced a significant influx of players, peaking at over 80,000 concurrent users on Steam. These technical difficulties left many unable to access the game or enjoy uninterrupted play, which undoubtedly contributed to the initial wave of criticism.
Beyond the technical hiccups, players have voiced a variety of concerns regarding gameplay. One review described the experience as “soulless,” attributing this sentiment to the game’s persistent prompts for in-game purchases. As a free-to-play title, many appealing customization options are locked behind paywalls, and several fan-favorite features from previous installments, such as the Hall of Meat and S.K.A.T.E. missions, are conspicuously absent. Additionally, the lack of a story mode has left some players feeling disconnected from the game.
The art style has also drawn mixed reactions, with some likening it to the aesthetic of Fortnite, which may not resonate with all fans. However, the most prevalent complaint revolves around the absence of an offline mode, a decision likely influenced by the game’s live-service model.
It is important to note that Skate is currently in Steam Early Access, suggesting that the developers have the opportunity to address player feedback in future updates. For those intrigued by the game, its free-to-play nature allows for exploration without financial commitment.
Skate is available now in Steam Early Access. You can download it here.
For those encountering issues, guides are available to help resolve the Skate crash error, along with a dedicated Skate server status update page. If you remain enthusiastic about the genre, consider exploring some of the best skateboard games on PC. And for those committed to EA’s latest offering, familiarize yourself with the top spots on the Skate map to perfect your tricks.
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