[previewyoutube=tRuprTKtJOo;full][/previewyoutube] The ‘more freedom with grabs’ gameplay update is now available on in the public branch on Steam. An expansion of freedom and control in Skater XL’s core gameplay, the update has just been released which makes some changes and additions to the grab mechanic. Players now have the ability to:

• Grab the board at any time with LB / RB, including while riding, during manuals, grinds, power slides, mid-air, during flip tricks, during pop-outs and more. You can also hold grabs through transitions between these different game states. There are no constraints on when you can grab or when you need to release the grab.
• Grab the board at any subtle angle you choose based on the angle of the board. There is a unique hand position and pose that will be created for any given board angle. Each hand can grab anywhere around the board including between-the-legs grabs, Seatbelts and Crails.
• Grab and release the board with either or both hands independently to mix and combine different grabs.
• Cleaned up and more polished poses and animations from previous PC beta release

Much like the original core gameplay, these new abilities are not programmed tricks or canned animations but a series of systems which create movements on the fly based on player input. This puts more creativity, style, and expression in the hands of the player. Additionally, the update includes the introduction of an in-game news feed that will help streamline the way players stay informed about Skater XL. This new feature will provide regular updates on the latest news, tips, content releases, and more, all conveniently accessible without ever having to leave the game. Now you can stay connected to Skater XL content and keep up with the ever-evolving world of skateboarding right from within the game. We have also made some improvements to coping grinds, making them smoother and more consistent, giving an overall more enjoyable transition skating experience.