Be careful downloading files from sources you don’t know
Over the last few days, an early build of the upcoming Skate game managed to leak onto the internet. Electronic Arts and the Skate team issued a statement today, asking players to respect the ToS and be careful with what they’re downloading.
The skate. team recently re-emerged with a new trailer, titled “Still Working On It,” showing off some pre-pre-alpha gameplay. But over the last week, reports of a leaked version have been cropping up across various forums.
We’ve seen some of the footage, and it looks to be a playable version of the pre-pre-alpha, though still very much a work-in-progress. Users report that tricks and animations are in, and it actually has that Skate feel to it. But it’s also, obviously, extremely early.
EA published an update today addressing the leak. It also issues the old internet adage, of being careful what you download and run on your computer.
We’re aware of an earlier version of the game that has been distributed without our authorization. This build is from September 2021 and was never intended for external use. While we understand you’re excited to get into the game, we encourage you to be careful when downloading files from unknown sources (and remind you of the potential consequences of breaking EA’s Terms of Service). The best way to get the chance to play is by signing up for skate. insider playtesting here as we continue to invite more and more players into the game throughout the year.
Watch where you land
It’s a bit of a bummer, but it also seems like the openness from the Skate devs about the game they’re making (and its current state) has helped set a good tone for the Skate leak. EA has been letting some of its games, like skate. and the Dead Space remake showcase early looks that are surprisingly transparent.
These looks into development aren’t pristine, but they’re highly informative and open about the development process. It feels like players are now a bit more accepting and understanding that early builds are not what the finished project will look like. The leak still tosses a wrench in things, but a more proper playtest is on the way too. At least for now, it’s probably better to wait and not download a sketchy file from some forum. It’s rarely a good idea to begin with.
