Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 Switch: A Radical Review

Alright, skaters and gamers, let's talk about Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Nintendo Switch! This game, a remastered version of the iconic original two games, has been a blast from the past for many of us. Does this port hold up on the Switch? Are those nostalgic vibes still hitting as hard? Let's dive in and find out if this game is a perfect landing or a faceplant.

The Hype: Why Everyone Loved the Originals

Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater games were more than just games; they were a cultural phenomenon. They defined an era, blending awesome skateboarding action with a killer soundtrack and addictive gameplay. The original games were groundbreaking for their time, not only in terms of gameplay but also in their overall vibe. They made skateboarding accessible to everyone, even those of us who couldn't ollie in real life. The games were simple to pick up, with intuitive controls, but offered tons of depth for those who wanted to master the tricks and combos. The soundtrack was a perfect mix of punk, ska, and hip-hop, which was just incredible. These games weren't just about grinding rails; they were about exploring levels, completing challenges, and finding secret areas. These aspects made them super-replayable, with players constantly striving to achieve higher scores and unlock more content. The level design was fantastic, with each stage offering unique challenges and opportunities to show off your skills. The nostalgia factor is very strong with these games. For those of us who grew up playing them, they represent a simpler time. They take us back to our childhoods, filled with memories of late nights, friends, and the thrill of landing that perfect combo. This strong emotional connection is a huge part of why the games are so beloved, and why the remaster had so much hype surrounding it.

Switch Port: How Does it Hold Up?

So, how does the Switch version of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 stack up? Let's start with the basics. The game itself is a faithful recreation of the original, with all the levels, skaters, and tricks you remember. The gameplay is just as smooth and responsive as ever. The controls are tight, allowing for precise control over your skater. Landing tricks feels satisfying, and the combo system is as addictive as ever. The game runs surprisingly well on the Switch. It maintains a stable frame rate, even during intense action, and the visuals are crisp and clean. The developers did a great job optimizing the game for the Switch's hardware. One of the biggest advantages of the Switch version is its portability. You can take this game anywhere and play it anytime, whether you're on the couch, on a plane, or at the park. This is a game that is perfect for short bursts of play, but also great for long gaming sessions. The ability to switch between playing on the TV and playing in handheld mode is another plus. This is a great feature, that adds a lot of value to the game.

Gameplay: Still Got It?

If you've played the originals, you know what to expect. If you're new to the series, prepare to be hooked. The gameplay loop is simple: choose a skater, pick a level, and complete a series of objectives. These objectives include scoring high scores, collecting items, performing specific tricks, and finding secret areas. The combo system is what makes this game truly special. Linking together tricks to build massive scores is immensely satisfying, and the game rewards creativity and skill. There are a variety of game modes, including the original career mode, free skate, and multiplayer. The career mode is where you'll spend most of your time. You'll progress through the levels, unlocking new skaters, boards, and gear. The challenges get progressively harder, but they never feel unfair. Free skate mode lets you explore the levels without any objectives, which is great for practicing your tricks and finding hidden areas. Multiplayer mode lets you compete against other players online or locally. The multiplayer experience is a blast, with various game modes that test your skills against other players. The game also includes a robust create-a-park and create-a-skater mode. Create-a-park allows you to design and share your own skate parks. This adds a ton of replay value. Create-a-skater allows you to customize your skater. This allows you to really make the game your own. These additions, combined with the core gameplay, make Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 a must-play for fans of skateboarding games.

Graphics and Performance: Looking Good on the Go

The visuals are significantly improved compared to the original games, with updated character models, textures, and environments. The graphics are colorful and vibrant, with a distinct art style that fits the game perfectly. The game runs at a stable frame rate, even in handheld mode, which is crucial for a fast-paced game like this. The game looks great on both the TV and the Switch's screen. The art style is consistent with the original games. However, the Switch version does make a few concessions to performance, but these are barely noticeable. The game maintains a solid frame rate, which is essential for a game that requires precise timing and reflexes. Overall, the graphics are a significant improvement over the original games, and the performance on the Switch is impressive.

Sound and Music: The Soundtrack is Still Fire

One of the most iconic aspects of the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series is its legendary soundtrack. The remastered version doesn't disappoint, featuring all the classic tracks you remember. The music selection is a perfect mix of punk, ska, and hip-hop, which perfectly complements the skateboarding action. The game's sound design is also excellent. The sound effects are clear and crisp, and the voice acting is well-done. The music is an integral part of the experience, driving the gameplay and enhancing the overall vibe. This game's soundtrack is simply fantastic and is one of the best soundtracks in video game history. The music is not just background noise. It is an important part of the experience that perfectly captures the energy of the skateboarding world. This game's soundtrack is one of the most memorable aspects of the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series.

Verdict: Should You Buy It?

Alright, guys, here's the bottom line. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic game. It's a faithful remaster that captures the magic of the originals, while also offering some modern improvements. The gameplay is tight and responsive, the graphics are improved, and the soundtrack is still fire. If you're a fan of the original games, you absolutely need to pick this up. If you're new to the series, this is the perfect place to start. The Switch version offers the added bonus of portability, allowing you to take the game with you wherever you go. There are a few minor issues, such as occasional frame rate drops, but they don't detract from the overall experience. The game is a must-buy for any fan of skateboarding games, and it's a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and addictive game to play on their Switch.

Pros:

• Faithful Remaster: The game perfectly recreates the experience of the original games.
• Addictive Gameplay: The combo system and objective-based gameplay are still incredibly fun.
• Amazing Soundtrack: The music is iconic and sets the perfect tone for the game.
• Great Graphics: The game looks great on the Switch, with updated visuals.
• Portability: You can take the game with you wherever you go.

Cons:

• Minor Performance Issues: There are occasional frame rate drops.

Final Score: 9/10 - A must-have for Switch owners!

Whether you're a veteran skater or a newcomer, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Switch is a must-play. It's a fantastic game that will keep you entertained for hours on end. So grab your board, lace up your shoes, and get ready to shred!