September 29 marks the 25th anniversary of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series. Launched in 1999 for the original PlayStation, these games have left a lasting impact on both the video game industry and skateboarding culture. Activision’s Pro Skater series not only established a successful franchise but also popularized extreme sports games, introduced licensed music in games, and served as an entry point to skateboarding culture for a whole generation. Despite facing challenges over the years, the series continues to thrive, with the latest release being the 2020 remaster of the first two games, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2.
In an exclusive interview with Digital Trends, Activision Chief Operating Officer Josh Taub emphasized the significance of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise, stating that it remains a core franchise for the company in 2024. Taub acknowledged the demand from fans for more Pro Skater content and highlighted the community of players that has contributed to the success and legacy of the series.
Looking back at the 25-year journey of the series, it is evident that the time is ripe for a resurgence. Despite facing challenges, the undeniable impact and cultural relevance of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater make a strong case for its continued presence in the gaming world.
Pro Skater takes off
Early memories of the Pro Skater series revolve around watching others play Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 on the PlayStation. While I did not personally own a Tony Hawk game until Tony Hawk’s Project 8 in 2006, the influence of the series was undeniable. The introduction of features like the manual in Pro Skater 2, which allowed players to chain combos, and the exceptional level design set a new standard for the genre, leading to a mainstream cultural impact.
Taub’s favorite entry in the series, Pro Skater 2, struck a balance between innovation and refinement, influencing the gaming landscape significantly. The series succeeded in bringing skateboarding to a global audience through engaging gameplay, ultimately contributing to the sport’s inclusion in the Olympic Games.
From Pro Skater 5 to Pro Skater 1+2
With a history of ups and downs, the Pro Skater series ventured into experimental territory with titles like Tony Hawk’s Underground and Tony Hawk’s Ride. However, the true low point arrived with the release of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5 in 2015, which received harsh criticism for various shortcomings.
Learning from the mistakes of Pro Skater 5, Activision revamped its development processes and focused on enhancing the physics and gameplay experience in the remaster, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2. The success of this remake underscored the importance of respecting the past while embracing modern innovations.
Pro Skater’s future
Despite the success of Pro Skater 1+2, Activision has not yet announced further remakes or new Pro Skater titles. However, there are hints of a potential revival, with Tony Hawk confirming ongoing discussions with Activision. The company remains open to fan feedback and suggestions, hinting at future developments in the Pro Skater series.
As the series celebrates its 25th anniversary, it’s evident that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater holds a special place in both gaming and skateboarding history. With a dedicated fan base and a rich legacy, Activision has the opportunity to reignite the franchise and reaffirm its position as a major player in the gaming industry.