Remember shredding to infectious Ska beats while pulling off epic skate lines? We asked the developers of EA’s new Skate game if that iconic sound will return, and their response was… interesting. Will the soundtrack feature your favorite brass-heavy punk, or is it time for a new vibe on the half-pipe?

The highly anticipated return of the iconic skateboarding franchise, EA’s new Skate game, has sparked considerable discussion among fans, particularly concerning its musical direction and the potential inclusion of Ska music, a genre deeply intertwined with the sport’s cultural history.

For many enthusiasts who grew up in the 1990s, the energetic brass section and upbeat rhythms of Ska were as integral to skateboarding as mastering a difficult grind or perfecting a complex line. This nostalgic connection, where the infectious sound of trumpets and horns became synonymous with successful tricks, fuels a strong desire to hear these familiar tunes once more in a contemporary skate game.

During a recent anonymous round-table Q&A; session with the developers behind the upcoming open-world skateboarding experience, a direct inquiry was posed regarding the anticipated percentage of Ska music within the game’s soundtrack. The question aimed to ascertain whether the new title would embrace this cherished genre, especially given its historical significance to the skateboarding community.

The query was met with a notable reaction from the development team, including Skate head of creative Jeff Seamster, senior creative director Deran Chung, and executive producer Mike McCartney. Chung humorously acknowledged the polarizing nature of Ska but admitted his personal affection for the genre, suggesting that while it might not feature prominently, its complete absence from the video game soundtrack was not confirmed.

In a ten-hour hands-on session with the recent press build, the vast open-world of San Vansterdam was extensively explored in search of the distinct, blaring horns and jovial beats characteristic of Ska music. Despite a diligent search for these particular sounds, they remained elusive, indicating a potential shift in musical focus, although it does not definitively rule out their eventual inclusion in the full release of EA Skate 2025.

This apparent reduction in the presence of Ska music, and even traditional skate punk bands, highlights a significant evolution in skateboarding culture since its early 2000s heyday. The musical landscape accompanying the sport has undeniably diversified, reflecting broader cultural changes and the emergence of new influences within the global skateboarding community.

Ultimately, music remains a critical component of the immersive skate game experience, providing an essential backdrop to the exhilarating gameplay. While the specific brass-heavy punk that once defined a generation of skaters might be less prevalent, the promise of a diverse and dynamic video game soundtrack in the free-to-play open-world skating title ensures that players will still have a compelling auditory journey.

Considering that EA Skate 2025 is designed as a live-service game with continuous updates, seasons, and events, there remains a hopeful anticipation for future content. The possibility of dedicated themed seasons, potentially featuring iconic Ska artists or even renowned figures like Aaron Barrett, could introduce a vibrant infusion of the genre, delighting long-time fans and enriching the game’s musical tapestry.