Questions people ask
Short answers first, with the long version one click away. Every claim links to where it comes from.
The basics
- What's the difference between a recomp and an emulator?
An emulator imitates the console's hardware while the game runs. A static recompilation translates the game's code into a native program ahead of time. skate3recomp is a recompilation, so it runs like a PC game, but it still needs your own copy of Skate 3.
- Which version of Skate 3 should I mod?
For most people it's the Xbox 360 version running natively through skate3recomp. Use RPCS3 if you want PS3-only mods or online play on the custom server, and Xenia or a modded console if you need the original hardware experience.
- What are .big, .psf, .xsf and .skate map files?
Skate 3 stores a world as streamed chunks, .psf on PS3 and .xsf on Xbox 360 and the recomp, packed into EA .big archives. .skate is a separate, portable single-file format made for the community Rust engine.
- How does map conversion on skatemods work?
When you upload a map, an isolated GitHub Actions runner unpacks it, checks it for executables and retail content, and rebuilds it for the other platforms. PS3 maps become recomp .big packs and .skate files, and Xbox 360 maps become .skate. No game files are stored or used.
- Where do I get the game files?
From your own copy. RPCS3, Xenia and skate3recomp all need a dump of a disc you own, and none of the community projects or skatemods hosts retail game files. Each emulator documents how to dump your own discs.
Skate 3
- How do I install a custom Skate 3 map?
It depends on where you play. On the recomp, drop the map's .big DLC pack in through the Level Loader. On RPCS3, replace the files in the game folder. On the Rust engine, open the .skate file. skatemods offers each map in every format it can convert to.
- How well does Skate 3 run on RPCS3?
Well. RPCS3 rates the US, EU and Japanese releases Playable. You need your own disc dump and the PS3 system software. RPCS3 is also the platform that has online play through the community Blaze server.
- Can I play Skate 3 on Xenia?
Yes. Xenia Canary's compatibility tracker marks Skate 3 playable from start to finish. Some players hit freezes, and there are known config fixes for them. For most PC players the recomp is the better choice, since it uses the same Xbox 360 copy.
- Can I still play Skate 3 online?
Yes, on RPCS3, through skate6743's community Blaze server. It restores matchmaking, friend invites and Skate.Park uploads. You point RPCS3 at it with a config tool, and everyone in a lobby has to use the same physics settings and game update.
- Can I mod Skate 3 on a real PS3 or Xbox 360?
Yes, if the console is modded. A PS3 on HEN or custom firmware runs SPRX menus and custom maps, and an RGH or JTAG Xbox 360 runs real-time editing tools. A stock console can't load mods.
Rules and rights
- Is modding Skate 3 legal?
Making your own maps and tools for a game you own is widely practiced and generally tolerated, but this isn't legal advice. The clear lines are these. Don't share retail game files, don't break copy protection to get games you don't own, and don't cheat in online games.
- Can I upload a map someone else made?
Only with the author's permission, and you have to say who gave it and where. Credit alone isn't permission. Conversions of a map you're allowed to share are fine, as long as the original author is credited.
Other games
- Why can't skate. (2025) be modded?
It's an online, free-to-play live-service game protected by EA's Javelin anti-cheat, and EA's user agreement bans mods. Modifying it risks a ban and isn't something this site supports. Its maps can still inspire Skate 3 maps.
- THUG Pro or PARTYMOD, which should I use?
They do different jobs. THUG Pro is a total conversion of THUG2 that collects levels from the whole series into one online game. PARTYMOD patches each original PC port with modern controllers, fixes and widescreen. Plenty of people use both.
- How is modding Skater XL different from modding Session?
Skater XL has official mod support. Its in-game, mod.io-powered browser serves maps and gear on PC and consoles. Session's mods are unofficial and PC-only, installed with the community Session Mod Manager and the Illusory unlocker.
Question not here? Ask in the community Discords, or add an answer on GitHub. Each question is one markdown file.