Is there a better time to dust off your consoles and dive into the best skateboard video games out there? The beginner’s high and the seasoned obsession – we all know that skating is more than just grinding rails at the skatepark. It’s an entire culture, a feeling that bleeds into everything we do, even when we can’t hit the streets. Now, with spring springing amidst some strange times and most of us bummed at the fact that we can’t shred the local park, an unexpected hero comes to the rescue – skateboarding video games.
We’re about to glide down the glittery halfpipe of gaming history and bring you a solid list of just-the-best skateboarding video games ever. Whether you’re a master of manuals or a king of kickflips, strap on your virtual helmet and get ready–we’re talking sweet tricks, sketchy halfpipes, insane speeds, and monumental leaps, all from the comfort of your homes.
So, what’s your mood for the day? Reliving the 80’s with Atari’s 720 or grinding out the challenges in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater? We definitely have it all here. Skate on, my friends. We’re in for one heck of a ride.
So, which are the best skateboard video games ever?
Before we fasten our helmets and dive head-first into our stellar list, remember that we’re talking about games that not only brought us killer graphics and smooth gameplay but also revolutionized the genre. Whether it was a brilliant combo system or the insane level design, each of these skateboarding video games left a significant footprint, and definitely had us spending way too much time in front of the screen!
1. 720
An oldie but a goodie, 720 was where it all started. This Atari gem from 1986, originally an arcade release, was the trailblazer that made way for the fantastic array of skateboarding video games we have today. Despite sticking to the basics with a relatively simplistic set of tricks, it was revolutionary in its own right and offered super-smooth gameplay for its era.
Riding through different levels like “Ramp,” “Downhill,” “Slalom,” and “Jump,” you pretty much felt the rush of the skatepark experience waiting for you around every corner. Collecting money, buying gear, and getting to the various skateparks to complete your killer lines made 720 an instant go-to for any skateboard enthusiast. Think of it as the ‘Star Wars’ of skateboarding video games – old school, iconic, and still insanely fun to play!
2. skate or die
An essential part of any NES aficionado’s library, Skate or Die took things to a new level – literally. Far more than just a skating game, Skate or Die offered three modes (“Ramp,” “Downhill,” and “Pool Joust”) that each felt like a game unto itself. Every session was a fresh thumb-numbing battle waiting to be fought!
The “Ramp” modes were quite tricky to master, but the “Downhill” and “Joust” modes were buckets of fun. The 8-bit graphics hold a charm of their own and add to the overall nostalgia of the game. Simply put, if 720 opened the skateboard gaming universe, Skate or Die expanded it to never before seen territories. You could argue that this is the Empire Strikes Back moment of our beloved genre.
3. tony hawk’s pro skater
If 720 was a quiet revolution, 1999’s Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater (THPS) was a massive explosion. One of the highest-selling games of all time, THPS practically nailed a 900-degree spin in the face of everything we knew about skateboarding video games. Pick your pro and shred your way through each level, with every grind, flip, and trick feeling just as exhilarating as the one before.
THPS had it all – open world levels, an insane variety of tricks, and a “SPECIAL” meter system that saw you performing outrageous skateboarding stunts you’d only witness in the X games (remember that front flip, anyone?). And just for the cherry on top, the game treated you to 411VM video footage of your favorite pro skater after you beat the game. Lastly, remember that soundtrack? Pure punk and ska magic, wasn’t it?
4. tony hawk’s pro skater 2
THPS2 is like a from-the-vault special remix of your favorite song by that killer band – familiar, but amped up to a whole new level. Smoother graphics, more tricks up its sleeve (pun intended), and an expanded gameplay environment made THPS2 a worthy follow-up to an already phenomenal predecessor.
THPS2 didn’t just dish out more of the same goodness though. It introduced the ‘Manual,’ which changed everything. This meant no more standalone tricks. Now, we were stringing together insane combos that filled up your SPECIAL meter ever faster. Yet, there was still something missing – something that only the next iteration in the game franchise would perfect.
5. tony hawk’s pro skater 3
Enter ‘Reverts,’ the game-changing element of THPS3. Suddenly, those endless manuals could be strung together with transition tricks to form jaw-dropping combos that made reality seem more like a video game than the other way around. So influential was this addition that, even today, it’s synonymous with any discussion about innovation in skateboarding video games.
Despite bearing much similarity to its older siblings in terms of structure and elements, this game opened up a world of experimentation. After all, who didn’t want to land the ultimate combo? It’s almost like THPS3 had cast an ‘Expelliarmus’ on the entire genre. Call it delusional, but I still get the goosebumps thinking about it. This skateboarding video game wasn’t just another sequel; it was an event, a moment in time where ‘virtual’ skateboarding almost seemed to outdo the real thing.
6. thrasher presents: skate and destroy
Emerging amidst the fever pitch popularity of the THPS fracnchise, Thrasher Presents: Skate and Destroy opted for a steep learning curve with a more simulation approach to skateboarding video games. It got a lot of heat from the critics for straying from the familiar formula, but any skater worth their salt knows that skating is all about carving new paths.
Despite the absence of real pro skaters, the game offered something unique. The playable characters were vying for the perfect trick to land a cover on the beloved Thrasher Magazine. Once you get over the control learning curve, it turns out to be a fun addition, albeit from a different section of the skateboarding video games’ spectrum.
7. tony hawk’s underground
Turning the tables on the conventional format, Tony Hawk’s Underground introduced a story mode that gave players a taste of the underdog journey. It simultaneously retained all the sweet elements of the THPS series, such as the smooth gameplay and killer tricks that we adored.
It’s like Tony Hawk decided to script Rocky, but made it about skateboarding. Gritty, relentless and deeply inspirational, this game had us sweating the small town struggles and fantasizing about the limelight, all while nabbing the craziest tricks imaginable.
What are skateboarding video games and why do they matter?
Skateboarding video games are more than just virtual renditions of real-life skaters battling gravity and gripping onto their boards. These games are equal parts pumping adrenaline and capturing the origins, development, and eternal love for skateboarding culture. But why do they matter so much to skateboarders – professional or otherwise?
For starters, these games let you live the skate dream without breaking a sweat or a bone. They offer up a buffet of insane challenges, tricks, and skateparks that you can enjoy from your living room couch. More importantly, they let you experience the thrill of skateboarding, irrespective of your skill level – which explains why they’re such a solid choice for every skateboarder.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes these skateboarding games so vital:
- They let you learn and practice tricks in a safe environment.
- You can experience the thrills of professional skateboarding.
- They offer detailed insights into skateboarding culture.
- You can enjoy the competitive aspect of skateboarding without leaving your home.
Dos and don’ts of playing skateboarding video games
Before we ride on, remember you’re on a virtual board here. Your gameplay experience can be a sick ride or a total wipeout, depending on how you approach it.
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Do experiment with combos | Don’t stick to the classic tricks all the time |
| Do explore the game world | Don’t speed through the levels |
| Do aim for the high scores | Don’t ignore the storyline |
| Do customize your in-game characters | Don’t forget to enjoy the process |
Additional skateboarding video game tips
You’re not a big fan of real-life skating and feel more at home with the controller? No problem! Here are some tips that will make your virtual skateboarding journey really enjoyable:
- Find a perfect blend of speed and trick execution. You don’t always have to go full throttle!
- Take time to learn the game control mechanics. It can drastically improve your performance.
- Don’t shy away from using cheat codes. After all, half the fun of video games is breaking rules safely!
- Try different games to find the one that best matches your skateboarding style and preferences.
- Last but not least, have fun! It’s just a game, after all!
A novice’s take on skateboarding video games
As a budding skateboarder myself, I can definitely attest that these games are super fun to play. But, they’re more than just games. They’re awesome learning tools. Whenever I pick up the controller and sit down for a session of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, I feel like I’m actually learning something new, like attempting a new trick or understanding how a particular combo works.
But here’s the interesting part: while playing these games can’t be equated with the genuine grind of learning an ollie, they provide a certain level of understanding of what goes into landing those insane tricks. So, here’s my two cents: Dive into skateboarding video games, and you just might find the inspiration for your next skateboarding trick!
wp:pullquote Skateboarding video games offer up a buffet of insane challenges, tricks, and skateparks that you can enjoy from your living room couch. More importantly, they let you experience the thrill of skateboarding, irrespective of your skill level.
Let’s breakdown the evolution of skateboarding video games and their impact on the gaming scene with a quick data table.
| Year | Game | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1986 | 720 | Introduced a simple set of tricks |
| 1988 | Skate or Die | Introduced multi-game modes |
| 1999 | Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater | Created a new genre |
| 2000 | Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 | Introduced the Manual |
| 2001 | Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 | Introduced Reverts |
| 1999 | Thrasher: Skate and Destroy | Introduced a steep learning curve |
Advantages and disadvantages of skateboarding video games
Video games about skateboarding are a staple in the gaming world like cheese on pizza, and enthusiasts pretty much always have something to say about them. Let’s peel off the grip tape and look into the advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of skateboarding video games
Skateboarding video games aren’t just addictive; they offer a unique blend of learning and entertainment that has many ardent followers.
- You can land Metzger Foxtail Bobbleheads without actually trying it on concrete first.
- They allow beginners to understand the intricacies of different tricks.
- There is no physical risk or danger involved.
- You can discover and explore a variety of skatepark designs and layouts.
- They provide a competitive skating experience regardless of skill level.
Disadvantages of skateboarding video games
Even the gnarliest downhill ride isn’t all rainbows and sunshine. And the same applies for virtual shredding.
- They may result in a more sedentary lifestyle and less actual physical activity.
- The gaming controls often don’t represent the real difficulty and skill level of the tricks.
- They might lull one into believing that landing those insane tricks is easy.
- The thrill and excitement of actual skateboarding can’t be fully simulated.
- They can sometimes overshadow the fun of physically skateboarding with friends.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Sure, we’ve talked about the best skateboarding video games that have made us pull out our consoles time and again. However, the halfpipe of gaming nostalgia is a deep one, and there are definitely questions still to be answered. If you’ve got any lingering doubts spinning in your head like a 900-degree Tony Hawk trick, check out the FAQs below.
Is thps the best skateboarding video game series?
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater (THPS) certainly is one of the most iconic and influential skateboarding video game series out there. With its excellent gameplay mechanics, memorable soundtracks, and variety of skateboard tricks, it’s not hard to see why it’s so well-loved. Still, deciding whether it’s absolutely the ‘best’ would heavily depend on personal preference.
Do skateboarding video games help improve actual skateboarding skills?
While skateboarding video games can certainly familiarize players with skateboarding tricks and terminology, the actual skills for physical skateboarding need to be honed in the real world. Skateboarding is as much about balance, strength, and agility, as about knowing the tricks. However, these games can definitely inspire you to try out new tricks in reality.
Are there any recent skateboarding video games?
Yes, there are quite a few recent entries in the skateboarding video game genre. For instance, ‘Skater XL’ and ‘Session’ are bringing a more realistic and physics-based skateboarding experience to the gamers.
Final thoughts
Riding through this gaming memory lane, we’ve realized just how much the world of skateboarding video games has evolved. From 8-bit classics to physics-based modern marvels, these games have continuously pushed the boundaries, reinventing our love for skating time and again – just as we always do when we’re out there, on our boards, pushing off the pavement.
But let’s not forget why we’re really here. Has this list helped you pick a game to get your virtual shred on? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading and happy gaming!
Key takeaways
This article covered the best skateboarding video games and their impact on gamer skaters. Here are some key takeaways:
- Skateboarding video games offer a risk-free environment to enjoy and learn about skateboarding.
- They’ve evolved from simple trick-based games to multifaceted experiences.
- Games like 720 and Skate or Die kickstarted the genre, while the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series completely revolutionized it.
- Modern games are focusing on realistic and physics-based skateboarding experiences.
- While they’re fun and educational, nothing can truly replace the thrill and experience of physical skateboarding.
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