(Image credit: Activision)
As I settle down with my controller, headphones snugly positioned, I am immediately hit by the dynamic beats of The Adolescents‘ classic, ‘Amoeba.’ This is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, and it feels strikingly familiar, reminiscent of those gaming sessions back in 2001. The talented folks at Iron Galaxy have masterfully reimagined this iconic gem for both veteran gamers and newcomers to skate culture, while infusing fresh concepts into the mix.
During a preview event, I dove into a substantial portion of this compelling remaster, leaving even more intrigued by the fresh levels and innovations crafted by the team. Loyal fans will see their favorite skaters, like Bob Burnquist, Rodney Mullen, and Kareem Campbell, all showcased in detailed glory. Iconic maps from Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 have been lovingly brought back to life, complete with novel enhancements and delightful surprises. While playing, I encountered numerous new NPCs offering witty remarks, like someone trapped behind a glass wall in Suburbia quipping, “The vibes are off,” or passersby outside the El Rey theater recalling old Tony Hawk games. There’s a treasure trove of new elements to discover, even for the most seasoned players.
The creative minds at Iron Galaxy have introduced entirely new levels to the game, such as Waterpark, merging inventive concepts with the franchise’s classic flair. According to design manager Mike Rossi, the goal was for these new arenas to feel as though they were unearthed from forgotten archives meant for THPS4. “I instructed the level designers that Waterpark should feel like something we rediscovered and modernized,” he shares. It’s one of many new additions that raise anticipation for what else the team has in store.
The Activision-published game creates an immersive experience with Waterpark’s twisting slides and deserted vibe, fitting seamlessly with the series’ long-standing themes. Skaters converge on these settings to pull off spectacular tricks or simply cause a delightful commotion. Whether you’re tracking down elusive secret tapes or performing complex trick combos, the rhythm of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 remains fluid and exhilarating. Updated mechanics, like vehicle skitching, enhance the synergy between THPS3 and its counterpart.
The classic challenge of achieving goals within a timed two-minute window is just as thrilling as before, though now you have the option to extend the timer up to an hour, providing a more tailored experience. Despite memorizing levels like Foundry, the pressure to beat the clock is ever present, making each second count as you string together eye-popping combos.
No Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater game would be complete without a killer soundtrack. THPS 3 + 4 blends tracks from the original with contemporary artists like Turnstile and Danny Brown, crafting an eclectic mix that resonates with today’s skate culture. Rossi explains, “Our audio team collaborated with Activision and Tony Hawk to curate a soundtrack that truly represents what skaters are into today. The music remains a vital component, evolving while still paying homage to its roots.
For those opting for the deluxe edition, features like the Doom Slayer as a secret skater, along with special moves, await, preserving some mystique in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. Discussing the Nintendo Switch 2 teaser featuring SpongeBob, Rossi mentions the balance of hidden areas and surprises. “We’ve packed plenty of secrets in there,” he teases, hinting at more thrilling discoveries.
Exiting the preview, I felt a nostalgic rush, eager to lose myself in mastering challenging combos at Foundry or seeking hidden treasures within College. Though I might be considered a responsible adult nowadays, there’s a youthful thrill in revisiting these realms, even if my knees occasionally protest. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 launches on July 11, 2025, across platforms including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with a planned edition for the Nintendo Switch 2. For ongoing updates, check our new games 2025 list.