I was quite anxious about Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. I loved the first ‘1 + 2’ collection released in 2021, but the Birdman’s third and fourth games profoundly influenced my early teenage years. The stakes for Iron Galaxy’s remake felt high, especially with the changes to THPS4, which made me uneasy.
Fortunately, I’m pleased to say this nostalgic return to what I see as the pinnacle of the Tony Hawk series is largely successful, though it has a few caveats.
Let’s address the major shift: Pro Skater 4 has undergone significant changes to align more closely with Pro Skater 3 (and the 1 + 2 remake). Instead of exploring at your own pace and initiating missions with locals, players now race against a two-minute clock, completing tasks as they go.
This shift might disappoint longtime fans seeking a straightforward remake, but I must acknowledge the modified approach works surprisingly well. Yes, the expansive levels in THPS4 can complicate tasks like collecting S-K-A-T-E letters, but this alignment creates a more cohesive experience, which newcomers will likely enjoy.
Despite the change in developers from Vicarious Visions to Iron Galaxy, THPS3 + 4 feels very familiar to veterans of the series. The gameplay is smooth and responsive, featuring spectacular combos along with extensive player and board customization options.
There’s a respectable lineup of characters, including Hawk, Zion Wright, and Chloe Covell. Unlockable figures like Bam Margera and Michelangelo from TMNT are available, as well as characters from the Digital Deluxe Edition, which also features extra music tracks.
Conclusion
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 marks a triumphant return to the franchise’s golden era, introducing the third and fourth installments with refreshed visuals while maintaining the beloved gameplay. Some players may struggle with the structural modifications to Pro Skater 4, and I share some disappointment regarding the absence of classic tracks. However, the benefits of this collection definitely outweigh its drawbacks.
If you’re seeking a substantial dose of nostalgia or want to experience the pinnacle of the Tony Hawk series, this addition to your Switch 2 library is highly recommended.
