EA’s Skate Faces Major Server Outage: What Players Need to Know
On September 17, 2025, Electronic Arts (EA) experienced significant server issues affecting players eager to access the Early Access feature of its latest game, Skate. As gamers attempted to log in, they were met with frustrating error messages, including “Server Is Under Maintenance” and error code 852146987. This outage has sparked widespread complaints among users, highlighting the challenges that often accompany the launch of new gaming titles.
The Nature of the Outage
Reports indicate that approximately 1,500 users reported issues on DownDetector, a platform that tracks service outages. However, it is important to note that not all EA services were down; the problems appeared to be isolated to the Early Access launch of Skate, developed by Full Circle. This situation is not uncommon in the gaming industry, particularly for titles released under an Early Access model, which allows players to engage with the game while developers continue to refine and expand its features.
Official Response from EA
In response to the outage, EA issued a statement acknowledging the situation. “We’re experiencing an ongoing outage and will enter immediate maintenance to fix the issue,” the company posted on X (formerly Twitter). They assured players that updates would be provided as the situation evolved. This proactive communication is crucial in maintaining player trust, especially during high-stakes launches.
Historical Context of Server Issues in Gaming
Server outages are a recurring theme in the gaming world, particularly during the launch of highly anticipated titles. Historical examples include the launch of “No Man’s Sky” in 2016, which faced significant backlash due to server issues and unmet player expectations. Similarly, the launch of “Cyberpunk 2077” in late 2020 was marred by technical difficulties, leading to widespread criticism and even temporary removal from digital storefronts.
The Early Access model, while beneficial for developers to gather player feedback and make improvements, often leads to server instability. This model has gained traction in recent years, with games like “Hades” and “Valheim” successfully utilizing it to build a loyal player base while refining their offerings.
The Importance of Early Access
The Early Access model allows developers to release a game in a partially finished state, enabling players to experience the game while providing valuable feedback. This iterative process can lead to a more polished final product. However, it also comes with inherent risks, including server outages and bugs that can frustrate players.
In the case of Skate, the developers are likely using this feedback to address issues and enhance gameplay. The game’s launch strategy reflects a growing trend in the industry, where developers prioritize community engagement and iterative development.
What Players Can Expect Moving Forward
As players await the restoration of the Early Access feature, it is essential to remain patient. EA’s commitment to resolving the issue is a positive sign, and players can expect updates as the situation develops. The gaming community is known for its resilience, and many players understand that technical difficulties are often part of the launch experience.
In the meantime, players can engage with the community on social media platforms, sharing their experiences and discussing potential improvements. This interaction not only fosters a sense of camaraderie among gamers but also provides developers with insights into player preferences and concerns.
Conclusion
The server outage affecting EA’s Skate serves as a reminder of the challenges that accompany the launch of new gaming titles, particularly those utilizing the Early Access model. While the situation is frustrating for players, it also highlights the importance of communication and community engagement in the gaming industry. As EA works to resolve the issues, players can look forward to a more refined gaming experience in the future.
