EA's 'Skate' Revival Sparks Monetization Concerns as Stock Ranks 272nd on $400M Trading Volume

On September 2, 2025, Electronic Arts (EA) saw a 0.29% decline in its stock price, with a trading volume of $0.40 billion, ranking 272nd in the market. The company announced the return of its cult classic game "skate." after a 15-year hiatus, set for a free-to-play, cross-platform release on September 16. The game, developed by EA’s Full Circle Studio, will be available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms, aiming to expand its audience through accessible and cross-progressive features.

The revival of "skate." has been a long-term project, initially teased in 2020. The game’s return leverages EA’s Frostbite engine and retains the franchise’s signature "flick" control system, which emphasizes intuitive trick execution. The new trailer, styled as a mockumentary, highlights the game’s focus on skate culture, blending nostalgia with modern mechanics. However, the free-to-play model has sparked concerns about monetization strategies potentially overshadowing core gameplay, a risk for long-time fans expecting a faithful revival.

While the release broadens accessibility, it also introduces pressure to meet heightened expectations. The 15-year gap between iterations means the game must not only satisfy its dedicated fanbase but also attract new players. Analysts note that the success of "skate." could influence EA’s broader strategy in free-to-play titles, though its stock performance suggests market caution ahead of the launch. The game’s ability to balance community-driven creativity with sustainable revenue models will be critical to its long-term impact.

Electronic Arts and Full Circle confirmed the early access release of "skate." on September 16, 2025, as part of the official announcement.