Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4is here, bringing gamers a fresh version of two of the franchise’s most influential entries. Over the years, theTHPSseries has evolved with each installment, andTony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4were major milestones for the franchise, especiallyTHPS 4.
THPS 4brought several new features to the franchise. Brand-new online modes and animal NPCs were just a few, but one of the biggest changes was with the Career Mode. InTHPS 4, original developer Neversoft ditched the franchise’s timer-based goals and opted for an exploration-focused approach.This controversial change toTHPS 4was confirmed in March, and it understandably didn’t sit well with many fans. This change stings for gamers who grew up lovingTHPS 4’s Career Mode, and it hopefully isn’t starting a domino effect with other future remakes.
If Tony Hawk Remakes Continue, the Next Game in Line Would Look A Lot Different From its Original Version
Tony Hawk’s Underground Was a Turning Point for Skate Games
Unlike theTHPSfranchise,Tony Hawk’s Undergroundwas far more focused on storytelling than goal-based gameplay.THPS 3+4has made a few controversial changes, like most of the original soundtracks being changed, but that’s far more palatable for longtime fans than a complete rework of howTHPS 4’s Career Mode is handled. IfTony Hawk’s Underground was remade with a 2-minute timer like the first threeTHPSgames, it would be a drastic departure that completely washes away what made the original version so unique.
Of course,a remake ofTony Hawk’s Undergroundhasn’t been confirmed, but if it ever happens, keeping its most important aspect intact is likely integral to its success. The story ofUndergroundnot only flipped the script on the expected formula, it demonstrated how extreme sports games can have more depth than just skating around and completing objectives.
Underground’s story wasn’t a particularly deep narrative, but it was a lot of fun, proving to be a breath of fresh air for the Tony Hawk-branded games.Getting to explore each level inTHPS 4as one wishes was a big moment for the franchise, and it was ultimately a stepping stone toUnderground.
THPS 3+4’s soundtrack only features 10 songs from the original games. Tony Hawk recently explained the change, stating, “We’re trying to make room for new acts and new songs.”
Tony Hawk’s Underground Evolved the Series in More Ways Than One
Neversoft wasn’t afraid to think outside the box and take chances withUnderground, and it brought players one of the most compelling Tony Hawk series. AfterUnderground, follow-upUnderground 2continued this newfound embrace of storytelling, making the two games a fun example of how much skate culture had influenced pop culture. Skaters and gamers didn’t just want skate-focused gameplay, many of them wanted stories centered around the sport, as well, and that’s one of the main innovations that makes theUndergroundseries so special.
The story ofUndergroundnot only flipped the script on the expected formula, it demonstrated how extreme sports games can have more depth than just skating around and completing objectives.
A Potential Tony Hawk’s Underground Remake Needs to Be Handled With Care
Only time will tell ifUndergroundwill get the remake treatment. Ultimately,the success ofTHPS 3+4will likely be the deciding factor.THPS 4’s Career Mode being watered down keepsTHPS 3+4from reaching its full potential. Granted, the remake is a fun trip down memory lane, but such a big change toTHPS 4is shocking. It will be interesting to see ifUndergroundgets a fresh coat of paint, and if so, the story needs to be the most important piece of the puzzle.
