Skate 4: How Long Was It In Development?
The much-anticipated Skate 4, now officially titled "skate.", has finally arrived, but the burning question on many gamers' minds is: Just how long was this project in development? The journey from initial whispers to the game's release has been a long and winding one, marked by fan anticipation and developer dedication. Let's delve into the timeline.
The Dream Takes Shape
Skate 3 launched in 2010, and while it was a critical and commercial success, fans immediately began clamoring for a sequel. However, for years, those calls went unanswered, leading many to believe the Skate franchise was dead.
The Resurgence: #Skate4
The turning point came in 2020. During EA Play Live, the unexpected happened: Skate 4 was officially announced. This reveal sent waves of excitement through the gaming community. While the announcement was a dream come true, it also marked the starting line for the game's actual development.
Development Timeline: A Closer Look
From the 2020 announcement to its eventual (free to play) release in 2024, Skate 4 (skate.) was in active development for approximately four years. This timeframe is fairly typical for a game of this scale, especially considering the complexities of modern game development, which includes:
- Building a New Engine: The developers at Full Circle opted to build upon the Frostbite engine, requiring significant customization and adaptation for the unique physics-based gameplay of the Skate series.
- Community Involvement: Full Circle emphasized community involvement throughout the development process. This meant incorporating feedback from playtests and community suggestions, which, while valuable, can extend the development timeline.
- Pandemic Challenges: The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly impacted the development process, introducing logistical challenges and potentially slowing progress.
Was It Worth the Wait?
Four years is a significant amount of time, but early indications suggest that the development team has used that time wisely. The pre-alpha gameplay footage and developer diaries have showcased a commitment to capturing the spirit of the original Skate games while introducing new features and mechanics.
Ultimately, the answer to whether the wait was worth it will depend on individual player experiences. However, one thing is clear: the developers poured a significant amount of time and effort into bringing Skate 4 (skate.) to life.
Are you ready to drop in? Download and play skate. now!
