Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Simulator, Sport
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Wii, Xbox 360
- Developers: Buzz Monkey Software, Robomodo
- Publishers: Activision
Tony Hawk: Ride (2009)
Tony Hawk: Ride is a skateboarding video game developed by Robomodo and published by Activision. It was released on November 17, 2009, for the Wii, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. The game is the tenth installment in the Tony Hawk’s skateboarding video game series and the first to use the Ride skateboard controller, a motion-sensitive peripheral that allows players to control their in-game skateboard with their body movements.
Gameplay
Tony Hawk: Ride’s gameplay is similar to previous games in the Tony Hawk’s series, with players skating around levels performing tricks and completing objectives. However, the game’s unique control scheme sets it apart from other skateboarding games. The Ride skateboard controller is a full-sized skateboard deck that is placed on the floor in front of the player. The player stands on the board and uses their body weight to control the in-game skateboard. The board is sensitive to the player’s movements, so players can perform a variety of tricks by shifting their weight, leaning, and jumping.
The game features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles. Players can also create their own custom levels using the game’s level editor. Tony Hawk: Ride also features a robust online multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against each other in a variety of game modes.
Reception
Tony Hawk: Ride received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s innovative control scheme and immersive gameplay, while others criticized its technical problems and lack of content. The game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Tony Hawk: Ride was a significant departure from the traditional Tony Hawk’s skateboarding games, and its innovative control scheme was praised by many critics. However, the game’s technical problems and lack of content prevented it from reaching its full potential. Despite its flaws, Tony Hawk: Ride remains a unique and interesting entry in the Tony Hawk’s skateboarding video game series.
Detailed Review
Graphics
Tony Hawk: Ride’s graphics are solid, but not spectacular. The game’s environments are detailed and varied, and the character models are well-animated. However, the game’s textures are sometimes muddy, and the framerate can occasionally drop during intense gameplay sequences.
Sound
Tony Hawk: Ride’s soundtrack is excellent, featuring a mix of punk, rock, and hip-hop tracks. The game’s sound effects are also well-done, and they help to create a realistic and immersive skateboarding experience.
Gameplay
Tony Hawk: Ride’s gameplay is fast-paced and exciting. The game’s unique control scheme takes some getting used to, but it ultimately provides a more immersive and realistic skateboarding experience than traditional skateboarding games. The game’s levels are well-designed and offer a variety of challenges, and the game’s online multiplayer mode is robust and fun.
Overall
Tony Hawk: Ride is a solid skateboarding game that offers a unique and immersive gameplay experience. The game’s innovative control scheme is its standout feature, but the game’s technical problems and lack of content prevent it from reaching its full potential. Despite its flaws, Tony Hawk: Ride is still a fun and rewarding game for fans of skateboarding and extreme sports games.
Score: 8/10
Pros:
- Innovative control scheme
- Immersive gameplay
- Solid graphics and sound
- Robust online multiplayer mode
Cons:
- Technical problems
- Lack of content
- Steep learning curve
Review Score
8/10