Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 5: Grinding Rails and Landing Ollie-nary Tricks!

Buckle up, skateboarding enthusiasts, because we’re about to dive into a world of aerial acrobatics, bone-jarring bailouts, and sweet, sweet combos – the electrifying realm of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5. Released in 2015 as a continuation of the iconic series, THPS5 sought to revitalize the franchise for a new generation of gamers while paying homage to its roots. While it met with mixed reviews upon launch due to technical hiccups and gameplay inconsistencies, this title still holds a special place in the hearts of many skaters who appreciate its fresh take on classic mechanics.

Let’s break down what makes Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5 tick:

Story & Setting:

Unlike earlier entries with more structured narratives, THPS5 adopts a looser approach to storytelling. The game revolves around the concept of “The World Destruction Tour,” a globe-trotting skateboarding competition featuring real-life pros and aspiring newcomers. You can choose to play as one of these skaters – legends like Tony Hawk, Rodney Mullen, and Lizzie Armanto, or create your own custom character – and grind your way through various urban landscapes, from the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles to the gritty alleys of Barcelona.

The absence of a concrete storyline allows players to focus on what truly matters: perfecting tricks, nailing combos, and showcasing their skateboarding prowess.

Gameplay Mechanics:

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5 retains the core gameplay elements that defined the series:

• Trick System: The heart of THPS5 lies in its vast array of tricks. Ollies, grinds, flips, spins – the possibilities are almost endless. Mastering the timing and button combinations is crucial to pulling off impressive combos and racking up points.
• Special Moves: Each skater boasts unique “special” moves that can turn the tide of a competition or help you conquer tricky obstacles. These include signature tricks from real-life pros, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the gameplay.
• Create-a-Skater:

Customize your own virtual skateboarder from head to toe. Choose their appearance, clothing style, and even their skateboarding stance. The freedom to personalize your skater allows for a deeper connection to the game world.

• Level Design: THPS5 features eight distinct levels, each with its own unique challenges and hidden areas.

Exploring these environments is key to unlocking secrets, finding collectibles, and mastering different skating styles.

Production Features:

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5 boasts several production elements that aim to elevate the skateboarding experience:

• Graphics & Soundtrack: The visuals in THPS5 are vibrant and stylized, capturing the energy and excitement of street skateboarding. The soundtrack features a mix of original tracks and licensed music from popular punk rock and hip-hop artists, further enhancing the game’s atmosphere.

• Online Multiplayer:

Team up with friends or compete against other skaters online in various modes, including “Free Skate,” “Trick Attack,” and “Combo Challenge.” The multiplayer component adds a layer of competitive intensity to the gameplay experience.

Criticisms & Reception:

Despite its attempts to modernize the Tony Hawk formula, THPS5 wasn’t without its shortcomings. Upon release, the game suffered from technical issues like frame rate drops, clunky controls, and glitches that marred the overall experience.

These problems led to criticism from both fans and critics, who felt that the game didn’t live up to the legacy of its predecessors.

However, THPS5 also received praise for its refreshing level design, expansive trick system, and the inclusion of a create-a-skater mode. The game’s attempt to blend classic mechanics with new ideas was ultimately appreciated by many players who were willing to overlook its technical flaws.

Is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5 Worth Playing in 2023?

That’s a question with no easy answer. If you’re looking for a polished, bug-free skateboarding experience, THPS5 might not be the best choice. However, if you’re willing to overlook some technical hiccups and embrace its quirky charm, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised by this often overlooked entry in the Tony Hawk franchise.

The game offers a solid foundation of fun skating mechanics and creative level design, making it a worthwhile experience for hardcore fans who want to revisit the world of THPS or newcomers curious about exploring the genre.