Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2: Nintendo Switch Review
Hey guys! Let's dive into Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 on the Nintendo Switch. This game is a blast from the past, bringing back the iconic levels, skaters, and tricks that we all loved. But how does it hold up on Nintendo’s handheld console? Let’s get into it!
What is Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2?
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is a remastered collection of the first two games in the legendary Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series. Originally released on other platforms to critical acclaim, this version brings the skateboarding action to the Nintendo Switch. The game features all the original levels, a stellar soundtrack, and the same addictive gameplay that made the series a cultural phenomenon. This remake isn't just a fresh coat of paint; it's a complete overhaul with enhanced graphics, smoother controls, and new features that appeal to both veteran players and newcomers alike.
In Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2, players can choose from a roster of legendary skaters, including Tony Hawk himself, and shred through iconic levels like the Warehouse, School II, and Venice Beach. The goal is simple: rack up high scores by performing a variety of tricks, grinds, and manuals. The game also introduces challenges and collectibles that add depth and replayability. Whether you're trying to land the perfect 900 or just cruising around, there's something for everyone in this game. The blend of nostalgia and modern gaming sensibilities makes it a must-play for anyone who grew up with the series or is looking for a fun, arcade-style sports game. The transition to the Nintendo Switch brings its own set of pros and cons, which we’ll explore further in this review.
Gameplay and Controls
When it comes to gameplay, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 remains true to its roots. The core mechanics are still as tight and responsive as ever. Stringing together combos, grinding rails, and landing those insane aerial tricks feels incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie, the game's intuitive control scheme makes it easy to pick up and play. However, mastering the game and pulling off those high-score runs will take practice and dedication. The revert, manual, and other advanced techniques are crucial for maximizing your score and completing the various challenges scattered throughout the levels. One of the standout features of this remake is the enhanced trick system, which allows for even more creative and complex combos. You can now combine different types of tricks to create your own signature moves and rack up massive points. This adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay and encourages players to experiment and push their limits. The game also includes a robust create-a-skater mode, allowing you to customize your own character and hit the ramps in style. Overall, the gameplay in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, making it a joy to play for hours on end.
As for the controls on the Nintendo Switch, they're generally well-implemented, but there are a few caveats. The Joy-Cons can feel a bit cramped, especially during intense sessions where precise inputs are crucial. The smaller buttons and less-defined D-pad can make executing certain tricks a bit challenging. However, if you have a Pro Controller, the experience improves significantly. The Pro Controller offers a more comfortable grip and more responsive buttons, allowing for better control and precision. Regardless of your controller choice, the game's control scheme is customizable, so you can tweak the button mappings to suit your preferences. This is a welcome addition, as it allows you to tailor the controls to your play style and make the most of the available hardware. While the Joy-Cons are serviceable, investing in a Pro Controller is highly recommended for the best possible experience with Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 on the Nintendo Switch.
Graphics and Performance
The graphics in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 on the Nintendo Switch are a mixed bag. While the game looks decent in handheld mode, it's noticeably less impressive than on other platforms. The resolution is lower, textures are less detailed, and the overall visual fidelity is reduced. However, the game still manages to capture the charm and personality of the original levels and characters. The environments are vibrant and colorful, and the skater animations are smooth and fluid. When docked, the game's visuals improve slightly, but it's still not on par with the PlayStation or Xbox versions. The resolution bump helps to sharpen the image, but the texture quality remains the same. Despite the visual compromises, the game is still visually appealing and doesn't detract from the overall experience.
In terms of performance, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 runs surprisingly well on the Nintendo Switch. The game targets 30 frames per second, and it generally manages to maintain that target, even during hectic moments with lots of action on screen. However, there are occasional frame drops, especially in more demanding areas or when performing complex tricks. These frame drops can be a bit distracting, but they don't happen frequently enough to ruin the gameplay experience. Load times are also reasonable, although they're slightly longer than on other platforms. Overall, the game's performance is solid, and it's clear that the developers have optimized it well for the Nintendo Switch hardware. While it's not the smoothest or most visually stunning version of the game, it's still a playable and enjoyable experience. If you're willing to trade some visual fidelity for portability, the Nintendo Switch version of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is a worthwhile option.
Sound and Music
The soundtrack of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is one of its biggest selling points. Featuring a mix of classic tracks from the original games and new additions, the soundtrack is a perfect blend of punk rock, hip-hop, and alternative music. Artists like Rage Against the Machine, Goldfinger, and Papa Roach provide the perfect backdrop for shredding through the levels. The music is energetic and infectious, and it perfectly captures the rebellious spirit of skateboarding culture. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, you're sure to find something to love in this soundtrack. The game also includes the original sound effects, such as the grinding of rails, the clatter of skateboards, and the cheers of the crowd. These sound effects add to the overall immersion and help to create a sense of nostalgia for the original games.
The sound design in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is also well-executed. The environmental sounds are realistic and help to bring the levels to life. You can hear the traffic whizzing by in the city levels, the waves crashing on the beach, and the echoes in the indoor skateparks. The game also features voice acting from the original skaters, adding to the authenticity of the experience. Overall, the sound and music in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 are top-notch, and they contribute significantly to the game's overall appeal. If you're a fan of the original games, you'll be happy to know that the soundtrack is largely unchanged, with only a few additions to keep things fresh. Whether you're skating to the beat or just listening to the music, the sound and music in this game are sure to get you pumped up.
Replay Value
As for replay value, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 on the Nintendo Switch offers plenty to keep you coming back for more. The game features a robust career mode, where you can complete various challenges and unlock new levels, skaters, and gear. There are also daily and weekly challenges that offer additional rewards and keep the gameplay fresh. In addition to the career mode, the game includes a free skate mode, where you can explore the levels at your own pace and practice your tricks. This is a great way to improve your skills and discover new areas. The game also features a create-a-park mode, where you can design your own skateparks and share them with the community. This adds a new layer of creativity to the game and allows you to create your own unique skateboarding experiences.
The game's online multiplayer mode is also a major source of replay value. You can compete against other players in a variety of modes, such as score attack, trick attack, and graffiti. The online multiplayer is smooth and responsive, and it's a great way to test your skills against the best players in the world. The game also features a local multiplayer mode, where you can play with friends on the same console. This is a great way to enjoy the game with others, and it's perfect for parties or gatherings. Whether you're playing solo or with friends, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 offers countless hours of entertainment. The game's addictive gameplay, challenging objectives, and robust multiplayer modes make it a game that you'll want to keep coming back to again and again.
Final Verdict
Wrapping things up, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 on the Nintendo Switch is a solid port of a fantastic remake. While it doesn't quite match the visual fidelity of other platforms, the gameplay remains as addictive and enjoyable as ever. The ability to play on the go is a major plus, and the game's performance is generally smooth and stable. If you're a fan of the series or just looking for a fun, arcade-style sports game, this is definitely worth checking out. Despite its flaws, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. So grab your board, lace up your shoes, and get ready to shred!