How EA Can Keep Monetization Without Losing Skate’s Soul
Players know monetization isn’t going anywhere, it is a "Safe" model, but it doesn’t have to feel like scraps for some and premium walls for others. With fair pricing, limitless customization, and rewards that celebrate skate culture, EA can make monetization work without draining the life out of the game.
Right now, Skate uses a dual-currency system-credits you can grind for, and credits you have to purchase. The issue is that the real-money credits are tied to the best gear and name-brand items, while the in-game rewards often feel like scraps by comparison. It creates a gap where players who don’t pay extra feel left out, even though they’re still putting in time and effort.
There’s a smarter way forward. Name-brand merch, gear, and unique boards shouldn’t be locked behind a paywall. Those items could be woven into the core experience—unlocked through achievements, progression, or made available with in-game currency that is also reasonable. That way, players feel rewarded for playing, while still having the option to spend if they want to. Monetization can absolutely work if it’s balanced, fair, and creative and not so over-priced as most games using this monetization model seem to do.
Customization should be and feel limitless—boards, stickers, sticker layouts, trucks, wheels, outfits, and character options that let players fully express their individuality. Pair that with an atmospheric Skater World that captures the grit and raw edge of skate culture, and you’ve got something special (Have you seen Wreckfest's sky layout?, Beautiful for what that game is).
Even details like showing bruises, scratches, or blood after hard crashes add to the immersion and a sense of consequence. It doesn’t have to be over the top, but it makes the world feel more real, more connected to the culture, and ultimately more fun. At its heart, Skate is about culture, creativity, and individuality, along side of that is the music, having more of an eclectic range from every era would seem to make that more pleasant, meshing older artists and newer upcoming artists to be showcased and give the consumer a feel of nostalgia and also a feel of them listening to a playlist they would play while riding and grinding.
Overall, a monetization system that reflects those values—rather than putting the best content behind real-money credits—would go a long way in bringing the soul of the series back or add to the "Self-Titled" Skate alone.
EA has the chance here to set a standard, not follow trends. Don’t let Skate become another hollow live-service clone. Bring back the authenticity, reward the players who live in your world, and show that this franchise still has something real to say.
