Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Mac, Nintendo GameCube, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Xbox
- Developers: Beenox, Neversoft Entertainment
- Publishers: Activision, Aspyr Media
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3: The Pinnacle of Skateboarding Video Games
Released in 2001, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 (THPS3) is widely considered to be the greatest skateboarding video game ever made. It built upon the success of its predecessors, THPS1 and THPS2, with improved graphics, gameplay, and a massive roster of skaters.
Gameplay
THPS3’s gameplay is fast-paced and arcade-like, with players controlling a skateboarder as they perform tricks and complete objectives. The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles. Players can choose to skate as one of 13 professional skaters, including Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, and Bucky Lasek.
The game’s controls are simple and intuitive, making it easy for players of all skill levels to pick up and play. However, THPS3 also has a high skill ceiling, and players who master the game’s mechanics can perform incredibly complex and stylish tricks.
New Features
THPS3 introduced several new features to the series, including the Revert, which allowed players to link vert tricks together. The game also introduced flatland tricks, such as Caspers, the Primo, and Handstand Manual.
In addition to the new tricks, THPS3 also featured a number of new levels, including the iconic School II level. This level was set in a high school and featured a variety of obstacles and challenges, including a giant half-pipe in the school’s gymnasium.
Customization
THPS3 gave players more customization options than ever before. Players could now create their own custom skaters, complete with unique clothing, hairstyles, and accessories. Players could also create their own skateparks using the game’s Skatepark Editor.
Legacy
THPS3 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 8 million copies worldwide. The game is still considered to be one of the best skateboarding video games ever made, and it has been cited as an influence on numerous other skateboarding games.
THPS3’s legacy is not just limited to video games. The game also helped to popularize skateboarding culture and inspired a generation of skaters. The game’s soundtrack, which featured songs by bands such as Rage Against the Machine and Bad Religion, also helped to introduce skateboarding to a wider audience.
Conclusion
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, iconic levels, and massive roster of skaters make it a must-play for any fan of skateboarding video games.
Review Score
9.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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