THPS 3+4 Review: Flawless Skateboarding & Fresh Levels
▼ Summary
– The author expresses skepticism about heaven but humorously hopes it includes Tony Hawk games, praising their blend of controls, level design, and music for delivering joy.
– Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 maintains the franchise’s fun formula with two-minute goal-based runs, though it controversially remixes THPS 4’s open-world levels into this format.
– The remake features updated graphics and three new levels (a waterpark, movie studio, and pinball machine), which successfully capture the spirit of the original games.
– While the soundtrack replaces many classic songs with new tracks, the gameplay remains flawless, offering responsive controls and a satisfying skateboarding experience.
– Despite minor bugs and performance issues, THPS 3+4 is a standout remake with a robust level editor, online play, and nostalgic appeal, making it a must-play for fans.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 delivers an exhilarating skateboarding experience that stays true to the franchise’s legendary roots while introducing fresh content. The latest installment combines the best elements of the classic games with modern enhancements, creating a nostalgic yet revitalized adventure for both longtime fans and newcomers. Though not without minor flaws, the game captures the essence of what made the original titles so beloved, fast-paced action, tight controls, and an infectious sense of fun.
At its core, THPS 3+4 follows the same winning formula that defined the series. Players tackle bite-sized challenges within two-minute runs, racking up points, collecting items, and unlocking new levels. The remake smartly adapts the semi-open structure of THPS 4 into the traditional timed format, ensuring consistency across both games. While purists might miss the original THPS 4 approach, the option to extend the timer to 60 minutes helps recreate that free-roaming feel.
Visually, the game shines with stunningly updated levels packed with intricate details and polished textures. Developer Iron Galaxy strikes a perfect balance, enhancing the environments without cluttering them, ensuring players can still spot ramps, rails, and collectibles at high speeds. Three brand-new levels, including a derelict waterpark and a surreal pinball machine, fit seamlessly alongside the classics, proving the team understands what made the originals so special.
The soundtrack, another hallmark of the series, gets a refresh with a mix of new and returning tracks. While some fans may mourn the absence of certain songs, the updated selection keeps the energy high, reinforcing the game’s modern yet familiar vibe.
Beyond the core experience, THPS 3+4 offers deep customization with a robust skatepark editor and online sharing. Players can craft and download imaginative levels, from recreations of past Tony Hawk stages to entirely original designs. Online multiplayer adds another layer of replayability, letting friends shred together in custom parks.
The gameplay itself is flawless, building on the refined mechanics of THPS 1+2. Tricks feel responsive, combos flow effortlessly, and even casual free-skating is a joy. Minor bugs, like occasional screen tears or camera glitches, don’t detract from the overall polish.
For anyone who grew up with the series, or simply loves tight, arcade-style sports games, THPS 3+4 is a must-play. It honors the past while injecting enough new ideas to feel fresh. If this is what skateboarding heaven looks like, sign us up.
(Source: Kotaku)
