Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 Switch Review

Hey guys, get ready to dust off those virtual skateboards! We're diving headfirst into the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 experience on the Nintendo Switch. This isn't just a port; it's a meticulously crafted remake of two legendary games that defined a generation. For those of you who spent countless hours perfecting your ollies, kickflips, and impossible tricks back in the day, this is a seriously nostalgic trip. And for those new to the series? Well, buckle up, because you're about to discover why these games are considered classics. This review will explore the gameplay, graphics, performance, and overall value of the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Nintendo Switch.

Gameplay: Shredding on the Go

Let's talk gameplay, shall we? Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Switch retains the core mechanics that made the originals so addictive. You've got your familiar combo system, where chaining together tricks earns you massive points and keeps the flow going. The controls are incredibly responsive, whether you're using the Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller. The game feels fantastic in handheld mode, making it perfect for quick sessions on the go. The trick system is intuitive. You'll be grinding rails, landing manuals, and pulling off special moves in no time. For all those gamers who are more familiar with the new generation of games, the controls may need some getting used to. However, this aspect is very basic, which makes the game a good choice for all types of gamers. The level design is phenomenal. The levels from both THPS 1 and 2 are faithfully recreated, complete with all the iconic spots and hidden areas. Each level feels unique and offers plenty of opportunities to experiment with lines and discover new trick combinations. The gameplay is all about finding that perfect line, stringing together massive combos, and chasing high scores. It's a game that's easy to pick up but difficult to master, and that's a huge part of its appeal. The game has a fantastic tutorial that lets you understand what you are doing. The gameplay is smooth, responsive, and, above all, incredibly fun. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete newcomer, you'll find yourself instantly hooked.

Core Mechanics and Combos

The heart of the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater experience lies in its core mechanics and combo system. This is where the magic happens, where you transform from a casual player into a combo-chaining machine. The game retains the classic control scheme, where you'll use a combination of face buttons and the analog stick to execute tricks. Mastering these controls is essential for success.

• The Basics: You'll start with the fundamentals: the ollie, the kickflip, and the heelflip. Learning these basic tricks is like learning to walk before you run. They're the building blocks upon which you'll construct your more elaborate combos. You'll get to learn how to do manuals which are very important in linking tricks.
• Stringing Tricks Together: The key to racking up massive scores is chaining tricks together. This is where the combo system comes into play. By linking tricks seamlessly, you'll multiply your points and keep the flow going.
• The Special Meter: As you perform tricks, you'll fill your special meter. Once it's full, you can unleash your character's special moves. These are over-the-top, high-scoring tricks that can significantly boost your score. Mastering the use of the special meter is crucial for reaching the top of the leaderboards.
• Grinding: Grinding is a cornerstone of the Tony Hawk experience. You can grind on rails, ledges, and other surfaces, earning points and maintaining your combo. Mastering the art of grinding is essential for navigating the levels and finding those secret areas. This is where you can rest, and prepare for your next trick.
• Manuals and Reverts: Manuals and reverts are essential for linking tricks together, which allows you to maintain your combo across different areas of the level.

Level Design and Iconic Spots

One of the most appealing aspects of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 is its level design, which remains faithful to the original games. The levels are meticulously recreated, bringing back all the iconic spots and hidden areas that players have come to know and love. From the Warehouse to the School, each level offers a unique skating experience and is filled with opportunities to experiment with lines and discover new trick combinations. It's the perfect combination of nostalgia and modern gaming.

• Warehouse: The Warehouse level is where many players begin their Tony Hawk journey. It's a relatively small level, but it's packed with ramps, rails, and other obstacles.
• School: The School level is a classic. It features a large central area with plenty of rails, stairs, and other obstacles. The School level is perfect for chaining together long combos.
• Other Iconic Spots: The game includes a variety of other iconic spots, such as the Hangar, the Mall, and the Venice Beach skatepark. Each of these levels has its own unique challenges and opportunities.
• Hidden Areas: The levels are filled with hidden areas. Discovering all of the hidden areas is part of the fun. These areas often contain secret objects, allowing you to boost your score.
• Replayability: The level design encourages replayability. There's always a new line to try, a new trick to master, or a new challenge to overcome.

Graphics: A Fresh Coat of Paint

Visually, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Switch is a significant step up from the original games. The graphics have been completely rebuilt, featuring updated character models, environments, and special effects. While it's not quite on par with the higher-end consoles, the game still looks great on the Switch, especially in handheld mode. The art style stays true to the spirit of the originals while adding modern touches, such as improved textures and lighting. It's a testament to the developers' commitment to preserving the essence of the game while bringing it up to modern standards. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are vibrant and full of life. The special effects, such as the trails left by your skateboard and the sparks that fly when you grind, are also impressive.

Visual Enhancements and Performance

• Character Models: The character models have been completely updated, featuring improved textures, details, and animations. The skaters look more realistic and expressive than ever before.
• Environments: The environments have been significantly improved. The levels are more detailed and visually appealing. The textures are sharper, and the lighting effects are more realistic.
• Special Effects: The special effects have been enhanced. The trails left by your skateboard, the sparks that fly when you grind, and the explosions from special moves all look more impressive.
• Handheld vs. Docked: The graphics quality differs slightly between handheld and docked mode. In handheld mode, the graphics are slightly softer to maintain a smooth frame rate. In docked mode, the graphics are sharper and more detailed.
• Performance: The game runs smoothly on the Switch, with a consistent frame rate. There may be occasional frame rate drops during particularly intense moments, but they are rare and do not detract from the overall experience.

Performance: Smooth Skating on the Go

Performance is a critical aspect of any game, especially one that relies on precise timing and responsiveness like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2. Thankfully, the Switch version delivers a smooth and enjoyable experience, offering a stable frame rate and minimal input lag. Whether you're playing in handheld mode or docked, the game runs remarkably well, allowing for seamless trick execution and uninterrupted gameplay. The Switch version maintains a solid frame rate, ensuring that the action remains fluid and responsive. This is especially important for pulling off those complex combos and landing those crucial tricks.

Frame Rate and Responsiveness

• Frame Rate: The game maintains a stable frame rate. Frame rate drops can occasionally occur during intense moments, but they are rare and do not negatively impact the experience.
• Input Lag: Input lag is minimal, ensuring that your actions are reflected on the screen immediately. This responsiveness is crucial for pulling off those precise tricks and reacting to changes in the environment.
• Handheld Mode: The game performs admirably in handheld mode, with no significant performance issues. This makes it perfect for playing on the go.
• Docked Mode: The game runs smoothly in docked mode, providing a sharper and more detailed visual experience.
• Loading Times: Loading times are relatively short, allowing you to quickly jump into the action.

Content and Features: A Treasure Trove of Skateboarding Fun

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Switch is packed with content, offering a wealth of gameplay modes, skaters, and customization options. You can play through the original story modes of both THPS 1 and 2, complete with all the classic goals and challenges. If you're looking for more casual fun, you can also jump into free skate mode and explore the levels at your own pace. There's also a robust multiplayer mode where you can compete against other players online. The game features a wide roster of playable skaters, each with their own unique stats and special moves. You can also customize your character with a variety of unlockable gear, including boards, clothing, and accessories.

Gameplay Modes and Challenges

• Story Mode: Play through the original story modes of both THPS 1 and 2, completing classic goals and challenges. This mode lets you relive the nostalgia and experience the core gameplay of the originals.
• Free Skate Mode: Explore the levels at your own pace, experimenting with lines and practicing your tricks. This mode is perfect for those who want a more relaxed experience.
• Multiplayer Mode: Compete against other players online in a variety of game modes, such as free skate, trick attack, and graffiti. The multiplayer mode adds a competitive element to the game.
• Challenges: Complete a variety of challenges to unlock new content and earn rewards. The challenges add an extra layer of depth to the game.
• Create-A-Park: Design your own skate parks and share them with the community. This feature adds a creative element to the game.

Playable Skaters and Customization

• Roster of Skaters: The game features a roster of playable skaters, including Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, and many others. Each skater has their own stats, and special moves, which allows you to find a skater that suits your style.
• Character Customization: Customize your character with a variety of unlockable gear, including boards, clothing, and accessories. The customization options allow you to express your personality and create a unique skater.
• Create-A-Skater: Create your own skater with a variety of customization options, including appearance, stats, and gear. The create-a-skater feature adds a personal touch to the game.
• Board Customization: Customize your skateboard with different decks, wheels, and trucks. Board customization lets you refine your skater's performance and aesthetics.
• Music: The game's soundtrack is an integral part of the experience. The soundtrack is full of iconic tracks that perfectly capture the energy and excitement of skateboarding culture. The music selection enhances the overall enjoyment.

Value and Verdict: A Must-Have for Skateboarding Fans

Alright guys, let's wrap this up! Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic package. It's a faithful and well-executed remake that captures the spirit of the originals. The gameplay is as fun and addictive as ever, the graphics are updated. The game offers great value, packed with content, and provides hours of entertainment. If you're a fan of skateboarding games or simply looking for a fun and engaging title for your Switch, this is a must-buy. The nostalgic factor alone makes it worth the price of admission. The smooth performance and portability of the Switch version make it the perfect way to shred on the go. Overall, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 is a slam dunk, a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gaming. Go grab it! You won't regret it.

Pros

• Faithful remake of the classic games.
• Addictive and responsive gameplay.
• Excellent level design and iconic spots.
• Updated graphics and smooth performance.
• Packed with content and features.

Cons

• Graphics not as detailed as on higher-end consoles.
• No major downsides to this release.

Final Verdict

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Nintendo Switch is a must-have for skateboarding fans, delivering a nostalgic and engaging experience. Highly recommended!