From its inception in 1999, the Tony Hawk series has seen a roller coaster of success and failure, with eleven iterations released. Regrettably, the more recent entries in the lineup, such as Tony Hawk: RIDE (2009) and Tony Hawk: SHRED (2011), didn’t quite cut the mustard. Acknowledging these missteps, the creators at Robomodo, along with publisher Activision, strategically decided to return to the franchise’s authentic roots.
REVISITING BELOVED STAGES IN HIGH DEFINITION
The game in question draws its substance from a collection of elements from the initial two installments: the 1999 and 2000 versions. Fans will be pleased to know that this includes several beloved locations. Warehouse, School 2, Mall, Phoenix, Hangar, Marseilles, and Venice all return, remastered and in vibrant high-definition detail. It’s nostalgia wrapped in a fresh coating of pixels.
CHARACTER SELECTION: FAMILIAR FACES ON THE BOARD
Your favorite skateboarders are back, too, lending an authentic touch to the gameplay. Apart from the titular Hawk, players can control Eric Koston, Andrew Reynolds, Rodney Mullen, “Lyn-Z” Adams Hawkins (Pastrana), Nyjah Huston, Chris Cole, and Riley Hawk. Including such diverse characters underscores the developers’ commitment to catering to the tastes of all players, regardless of their skating preferences.
STAYING TRUE TO ROOTS: GAMEPLAY MECHANICS
The essence of the game lies in its gameplay mechanics, which remain faithful to the original format. Players are not only tasked with pulling off jaw-dropping stunts and combos on their boards but also have to hunt for collectible letters and complete various challenges. It’s not just about nailing the most incredible tricks but also mastering the art of exploration and competition.
BRINGING BACK THE CLASSIC CONTROLS
The game’s controls are as familiar as an old song, adhering to the traditional design that the fans loved in the original series. It’s an aspect that speaks to the simplicity of the earlier days of gaming, a time when button-mashing was replaced by skill and timing. Moreover, the game offers social features that allow players to compare their scores with friends, fostering a sense of competition and camaraderie.
VISUALS: A MODERN TAKE ON A CLASSIC GAME
Remastered visuals are the cherry on top of this gaming sundae. Characters exhibit more natural-looking movements, their actions captured through dynamic camera angles. This breathes new life into the game while retaining the vintage charm of its predecessors. It’s old school meets new school, offering players the best of both worlds.
In conclusion, it’s not just a game – it’s a time capsule, capturing the best elements of the early series and presenting them in a refreshed, modern format. Whether you’re an old fan or a new player, this game offers something for everyone, blending nostalgia with innovation in a captivating package. If skateboarding and gaming are your thing, this one’s a no-brainer. Get ready to kick, flip, and ride your way to a blast from the past!
