Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is set to be released on July 8, 2025, and aims to continue the legacy of the acclaimed skating franchise. Fans of the series had long awaited a remake of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3, which was absent in the first remake. Developer Iron Galaxy has taken on the challenge, but there are concerns regarding the decisions made in how the games are structured.
The original games were intricately designed, with each entry building upon the previous in clear ways. The first three games allowed for two-minute skate sessions packed with goals, while Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 introduced a freer roaming format paired with mission-giving characters. In Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, the levels from 4 have been altered to match the structure of the first three games, which some fans view as a missed opportunity. This change limits the variety of gameplay and goals that were unique to the fourth installment.
Critics are disappointed that the charming moments, such as helping characters with quirky tasks, have been replaced with generic goal-collecting systems. Furthermore, levels from the original games have shifted, feeling less personalized and more homogenized. The competition maps, rather than offering a mix of challenges, now focus on scoring alone within tight rounds, which detracts from the engaging play style of the original games.
While many envisioned a heartwarming tribute to their beloved memories, the decisions made appear to minimize the distinctive traits of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4. Career mode has seen a change, with a focus that feels more repetitive as players are no longer able to connect with their unique skaters’ individual goals. Pro Goals present a challenge that may extend gameplay, yet the process to unlock the endgame content feels counterintuitive for returning players.
Despite these grievances, the gameplay remains remarkably satisfying, with players able to perform a range of tricks across stunningly reworked levels. New maps also introduce fresh environments, maintaining the essence while offering new skating experiences. The vibrant visuals bring to life the nostalgia, allowing players the joy of skating in locations once limited by the constraints of earlier consoles.
In terms of music, the soundtrack remains a high point. It features iconic songs from earlier games paired with new tracks that contribute to the overall atmosphere of skateboarding culture. Multiplayer options have expanded, including the innovative HAWK mode that combines elements of hide-and-seek with skating, adding intriguing layers to the competitive experience.
While Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 holds the potential of a thrilling skating game, certain design choices create a divide among fans. The effort to mesh the fourth game’s spirit into a framework more reminiscent of the originals might detract from what made the earlier entries memorable. Its ability to deliver classic skating mechanics alongside new features and challenges will ultimately shape the players’ reception as they reconnect with the beloved franchise.
