Skater XL Developer Returns with VR Skateboarding Game
Extended Reality | Games
5 minutes read
Ever wonder if today's youth still think skateboarding is cool? Back in my day, skateboarders were the epitome of cool. Unfortunately, my lack of balance made me give up on that dream early on. But now that this classic street culture is making its way into VR skateboarding simulation, can it make our dreams come true in virtual reality, or will it be another failed attempt?
Recently, Flip Axis Studios announced the upcoming release of a VR skateboarding simulation game called Virtual Skate, set to launch on Steam and Meta Quest 3/3s platforms. The game's standout feature isn't just its attempt to recreate the intricate physics and speed of skateboarding; it's also the fact that its developer, Jon West, brings a wealth of experience. After all, he was the co-founder and lead developer of the highly acclaimed skateboarding simulation game Skater XL – The Ultimate Skateboarding Game.
Can the Free Spirit of Skater XL Bring Skate Culture to VR?
If you're a fan of skateboarding games, you've definitely heard of, or even played, Skater XL.
Released in 2020, this skateboarding simulation game for PC and consoles may not have the flashiest graphics, but it quickly gained a reputation among skateboarders and simulation gamers for its high degree of freedom and realistic skateboarding mechanics. Unlike traditional skateboarding games like the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series, which focus on combos and tricks, Skater XL is more like an open-world sandbox where every move is crafted by the player, not pre-set animations.
This close connection to real skateboarding culture, especially street skating, attracted many real-life skateboard enthusiasts. Many players even recreate real locations, film skate videos, and upload them to YouTube or social media, making the game a digital extension of skate culture. It has earned a "Very Positive" rating on Steam.
Now, Jon West, the developer of Skater XL, is bringing this passion for skateboarding culture and experience to VR skateboarding simulation.
Using Your Hands to Control Your Feet? A Counterintuitive Virtual Experience
"For those old skaters who can't jump down big stairs anymore, or for boarders stuck indoors on rainy days," reads the official press release. Virtual Skate knows its audience well. This game lets you recapture the rhythm and creativity of skateboarding without the risk of injury, whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, allowing you to express yourself on virtual streets.
However, this time, you'll be using your hands to control your feet. It might sound counterintuitive, but if you've ever played Gorilla Tag, you'll know that humans haven't forgotten the instinct of "using both hands and feet." No more button mashing or joystick movements; every angle, force, and timing is in your hands. Virtual Skate emphasizes not using pre-made animations but relies entirely on physics calculations, pushing the limits of realism in skateboarding games once again.
They haven't forgotten about social features either. In Virtual Skate, players can connect with friends to skate together and even capture and share epic moments on social media.
Currently, Virtual Skate hasn't announced an exact release date. If you loved the realism and freedom of Skater XL and are looking forward to a more immersive VR skateboarding simulation experience, it might be time to swap your knee pads for a VR headset and get ready to hit the virtual skate park again.
