The skateboarding video game scene has been relatively quiet for the past decade, but that’s all about to change. Several new titles are vying to become the worthy successor to classics like the THPS and Skate series. Among these contenders, Skater XL, developed by Easy Day Studios, stands out with its unique approach and a passionate community that’s actively shaping its future. Their marketing director, Jeff Goforth, confidently asserts that Skater XL can compete with any skateboarding game, past, present, or future, bringing excitement back to the genre.
Skater XL distinguishes itself with its physics-driven gameplay, where players have real-time control over their board. Unlike games with canned animations, this allows for a more realistic and creative experience, letting players execute tricks with their own style, just like real-life skateboarding. This unique approach has fostered a dedicated community that has been instrumental in shaping the game, especially during its early access phase on Steam.
Skater XL game interface
The Rise of the “Fake Skate” Community
The term “fake skate” refers to an online community of gamers who are deeply passionate about skateboarding video games. This community, which emerged organically from the Skate era, goes beyond just playing the game. Members actively chat, film, and edit virtual skate videos, sharing them to hype each other up. This culture thrived during the early access of Skater XL on PC, with YouTubers, streamers, and crews creating a plethora of skate videos. Discord servers like FakeSkateXL (with nearly 3,000 members) and SXL MODDING (close to 100,000 members) became hubs for this vibrant community. This level of engagement is quite unique, showing a close connection between the game and its player base.
The community’s feedback during early access played a crucial role in the game’s development, with many suggestions being incorporated into the full release. Victor Roberts, known as MagicNarcosis, is a prominent figure in this community. As a skater who had to stop due to physical limitations, video games became his way to stay connected to skate culture. Victor, along with Clayfighter, founded the Hoodlum Family, a team that grew to 50 members. This team, similar to “clans” in other gaming communities, demonstrates how real-world skate culture influences the virtual world, bringing their knowledge and appreciation for skateboarding to the game.
Skater XL gameplay screenshot
Hoodlum Family: A Virtual Skate Brand
Hoodlum Family comprises four teams: Hostile, Threat, 1954, and Vice, resembling real-world skate brands but with virtual, free custom gear. For many Skater XL players, it’s about strengthening the community rather than making money. Hoodlum is actively working to integrate skate culture into the gaming world, educating players on the nuances of skateboarding. They use videos, shared on platforms like YouTube, social media, and Twitch, to promote their vision, much like real skate teams. This approach captures the essence of skate culture and its focus on self-expression and community.
Skater XL gameplay GIF
The virtual world of Skater XL doesn’t just end with teams. Media outlets have also emerged. YZ Magazine, short for Your Zine, is a digital magazine founded by Blake Hatch, showcasing in-game skate photos and brand ads. Hatch’s goal is to “provide a sort of authenticity to fake skating.” YZ collaborates with Easy Day, receiving early information on upcoming releases, further solidifying its role as a key media source in the community. Easy Day has even expressed that YZ is “like the Thrasher of fake skate.” This highlights how deeply the game is linked to its community, which is involved in everything from game development to media coverage.
Mods, Maps, and Community Contributions
Much of what the Skater XL community has achieved is facilitated by Discord, where players communicate, share content, and access mods for the PC version. Moderators and admins work tirelessly to keep the community thriving. However, the move from PC to consoles presents challenges, as console versions are more closed, making it harder for the community to make changes and keep the game current.
The PC version allows for modifications (mods), with map-making being particularly popular. Jean-Olive, a self-taught map maker, has created many custom spots, including a mashup of Barcelona spots in a map called “Streets,” which will appear in the upcoming console release. For map makers and other community members, it’s the feedback and the joy of seeing others engage with their creations that drive them. The contributions of this community go beyond simple gameplay, fostering a strong sense of solidarity and belonging.
Skater XL gameplay GIF
From Hobby to Pro: The Rise of Skater XL Streamers
The passionate community around Skater XL has also created opportunities for players to “go pro.” Jesse Lack, known as JBoogie, has been streaming the game on Twitch since its early access launch in 2018. Through dedication, which includes creating sound mods by recording his own real-life skating, Jesse streams 5 days a week and regularly engages with the community. He has created a very popular stream, where he provides tutorials and takes trick requests. Jesse’s efforts have resulted in a monthly income of around $1,300, which he considers a great deal to “basically get to hang out, smoke weed, and play video games.”
Jesse has recently cut his work hours to focus more on streaming and has also had the chance to create official content for Easy Day. His journey exemplifies the opportunities for success that are now available for gamers within the Skater XL community. For someone who has always wanted to work in a creative field, this unique blend of gaming and community involvement is a perfect fit.
Skater XL gameplay GIF
The Future of Skater XL
The story of Skater XL is not just about a video game; it’s about a passionate community that is actively shaping its development and future. From contributing ideas to creating custom content, the “fake skate” community is central to the game’s identity and appeal. The game’s success hinges not just on its innovative gameplay but also on the vibrant and dedicated community that has grown around it. As the game opens up to more users with the console release, the potential for further growth and innovation within this community is very exciting, and the success stories of players like JBoogie provide hope for others within the community.
