Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 Score: Remake Excellence

Few video game franchises hold as much cultural significance as Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. The original games, released in 1999 and 2000, revolutionized sports gaming, blending arcade-style fun with a deep appreciation for skateboarding culture. Two decades later, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 (2020) arrived as a full-fledged remake, proving that nostalgia alone isn’t enough—execution matters. Developed by Vicarious Visions and published by Activision, this remake doesn’t just recapture the magic of the originals; it elevates them with modern polish while staying true to their core identity.

Faithful Yet Refreshed

Remakes often struggle to balance modernization with authenticity. Some veer too far from the source material, alienating longtime fans, while others play it too safe, feeling like mere graphical upgrades. THPS 1 + 2 strikes a perfect balance. The levels—from the iconic Warehouse to the sprawling School II—are meticulously recreated with enhanced textures, lighting, and detail, yet their layouts remain untouched. Veterans will feel an immediate sense of familiarity, while newcomers experience these classic environments with stunning visual fidelity.

The gameplay is similarly faithful. The trick system, physics, and controls retain the original’s arcade-like fluidity, ensuring that combos still feel as satisfying as they did in 1999. At the same time, subtle refinements—like improved animations and more responsive inputs—make the experience smoother without altering the core mechanics. The remake also introduces modern quality-of-life improvements, such as reverts being available from the start (previously a THPS3 addition) and the ability to manual in THPS1 levels, which expands combo potential.

A Soundtrack That Still Slaps

One of the most celebrated aspects of the original games was their punk, ska, and hip-hop-heavy soundtracks. The remake not only brings back all the classics—Goldfinger’s "Superman," Dead Kennedys’ "Police Truck," and Rage Against the Machine’s "Guerilla Radio," to name a few—but also adds new tracks that fit seamlessly into the lineup. The inclusion of artists like Machine Gun Kelly and A Tribe Called Quest ensures the soundtrack feels fresh while maintaining the rebellious spirit of the originals.

The audio design extends beyond music. The crisp sound effects—board grinds, ollies, and bail crashes—are more detailed than ever, immersing players deeper into the skateboarding fantasy. Even the voice lines from the original skaters, including Tony Hawk himself, have been re-recorded, adding a layer of authenticity.

Content and Customization

Beyond the core gameplay, THPS 1 + 2 offers a wealth of content. The Career Mode faithfully recreates the original objectives—collecting S-K-A-T-E letters, smashing boxes, and achieving high scores—but with added challenges and unlockables. Completing these tasks rewards players with new gear, boards, and even secret skaters like Spider-Man (a callback to THPS2’s unlockable character).

The Create-a-Park and Create-a-Skater modes have also been expanded. Players can design elaborate skate parks with an intuitive editor, sharing them online for others to enjoy. Meanwhile, the skater customization options are deeper than ever, allowing for unique appearances that reflect personal style—whether that means replicating a pro skater’s signature look or crafting something entirely original.

Multiplayer and Longevity

While the original games were primarily single-player experiences, the remake introduces robust multiplayer options. Local split-screen returns, but online multiplayer takes center stage with competitive modes like Trick Attack, Graffiti, and Horse. Leaderboards and daily challenges keep players engaged, fostering a sense of community that extends beyond the core campaign.

The game’s post-launch support, including additional skaters and cosmetic updates, further cemented its longevity. Though no major DLC expansions were released, the base game’s sheer replayability ensures it remains a go-to for both casual and competitive players.

Why It Works as a Remake

Many remakes falter by either changing too much or too little. THPS 1 + 2 succeeds because it understands what made the originals special—fast-paced gameplay, killer music, and an irreverent attitude—and enhances those elements without overcomplicating them. It respects the past while embracing modern gaming standards, making it accessible to both nostalgic fans and a new generation.

In an era where remakes and remasters are often met with skepticism, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 stands as a shining example of how to do it right. It’s not just a rehash; it’s a celebration of skateboarding culture, a love letter to fans, and proof that some games truly are timeless. Whether you’re reliving your youth or discovering these classics for the first time, this remake delivers excellence on every level.

Now, go hit that 900.