Quick Takeaways
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Restructuring Announcement: Full Circle, the developer of the new Skate game, is restructuring and laying off staff less than six months after the game’s early access launch on September 15, 2025.
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Support for Team Members: The restructuring impacts roles within the team, but Full Circle emphasizes this decision isn’t a reflection of the affected employees’ contributions and pledges support during the transition.
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Shift in Game Direction: Originally formed in 2021 with talent from the original Skate team, Full Circle’s new free-to-play live-service model differs from previous Skate games, raising questions about player retention and engagement.
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Industry Challenges: Recent struggles with live-service game launches, like Concord’s failure, highlight the challenges Full Circle faces, despite Skate attracting “tens of millions” of players.
Skate Developer Restructures Amid Early Access Phase
Full Circle, the developer behind the new Skate game, recently announced it will lay off staff as part of a company restructuring. This decision comes less than six months after the game launched in early access on September 15, 2025.
The exact number of affected roles remains unclear. However, Full Circle emphasized that this change aims to better support Skate’s long-term future. In a statement, the studio acknowledged the talent and dedication of the colleagues who helped build the game, asserting, “Their creativity and dedication are deeply ingrained in what players experience today.”
The gaming landscape has become increasingly competitive. Live-service games require ongoing engagement and financial commitment from players, often through microtransactions. Despite Skate attracting “tens of millions” of players, retaining interest poses a challenge. Recent developments, including the struggles of titles like Concord and Highguard, illustrate the difficulties of launching successful live-service games today.
As the gaming industry evolves, Full Circle’s restructuring reflects the need to adapt. The shift also highlights the balance between creativity and business sustainability in competitive markets. Engaged communities can thrive in smart cities with innovative approaches, reflecting deeper implications for where technology meets entertainment.
Full Circle aims to transition smoothly during these changes. The team remains committed to supporting affected employees, underscoring the human element behind game development. As the Skate franchise moves forward, fans await to see how this restructuring will shape the future gameplay experience.
Engadget has reached out to Electronic Arts for further comments regarding the layoffs and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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