The early access version of Skate brings a bittersweet experience to fans of the classic series. While the core gameplay undeniably captures the magic of the original controls, allowing for moments of pure joy as you carve out spontaneous lines and pull off old-school tricks, these highs are unfortunately fleeting.

The overall immersion is constantly broken by elements that feel out of place for a Skate title. Players will encounter cheesy dialogue, uninspired art direction, and a progression system that leans heavily into a grindy, mobile-game style. These aspects repeatedly pull you out of the fluid skateboarding experience that the series is known for.

In its current state, Skate Early Access struggles to find its identity, feeling more like a spin-off from a game like Fortnite rather than a true successor to the beloved Skate franchise. This leaves a decidedly disappointing initial impression. For those yearning for the authentic Skate 2 vibe, revisiting the original game might prove to be a far more satisfying endeavor.