Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, a series once thought to be retired, is experiencing a resurgence thanks to the efforts of Iron Galaxy. Following a series of poorly received releases, including a motion-controlled misstep and a controversial HD version, the franchise seemed to have lost its footing. However, the release of Vicarious Visions’ Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 offered a nostalgic yet refreshing take that rekindled fans’ love for the series.
The remake combined iconic levels from the first two games with expanded mechanics from the first four titles, providing a perfect homage to the golden era of extreme sports games. Despite its success, it appeared to be a standalone revival, with no immediate plans for further development. That was until rumors emerged in 2024 about a new installment being in the works, coinciding with the franchise’s 25th anniversary.
Iron Galaxy’s New Vision
Iron Galaxy has taken the helm to breathe new life into the series with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. This latest installment not only revisits classic levels but introduces three new ones—Pinball, Waterpark, and Movie Studio—crafted specifically for the remake. These levels serve as a testament to Iron Galaxy’s potential to lead the franchise into uncharted territory.
Pinball, a standout among the new levels, offers a unique experience. Players skate inside a giant pinball machine controlled by a colossal Tony Hawk, with each run beginning as they are launched into the machine. The level’s design encourages players to explore various mechanics, such as riding rails and hitting speed boosts, all while maintaining a fast-paced, downhill jam-style vibe.
Innovative Level Design
Movie Studio, another new addition, is a competition level where players’ runs are scored and averaged against AI competitors. The level’s design focuses on transitioning between movie sets and maintaining combos, with tracks for film cameras serving as grind spots. This setup promises countless hours of gameplay as players strive for the perfect no-bail run.
Waterpark, widely showcased since the game’s announcement, is the largest of the new levels. It features waterslides, massive pools, and even a returning antagonist from a previous Tony Hawk game, offering a blend of nostalgia and fresh challenges.
“Pinball, Waterpark, and Movie Studio all fit perfectly within the framework of the original games, and are the best possible audition for making a new game from scratch.”
Charting a New Course
The success of these new levels underscores Iron Galaxy’s capability to steer the Tony Hawk series forward. With Microsoft and Tony Hawk himself reportedly backing the franchise, there is a strong case for Iron Galaxy to develop Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5. The original THPS 5, released in 2015, was a critical failure, tarnishing the series’ otherwise stellar reputation. A new version could rectify this misstep and restore the series’ former glory.
Historically, the first four Pro Skater games were among the highest-rated on their platforms, with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 still recognized as one of the best games ever made. Reviving the series with a new installment, rather than relying solely on remakes, could reignite the passion of its dedicated fan base.
Looking Ahead
In an industry where game development can span a decade and cost millions, a new Tony Hawk game leveraging existing mechanics and introducing 12-15 new levels presents a relatively low-risk investment. The demand for a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake may persist, but the future lies in creating original content.
The fervor surrounding the franchise is evident, as demonstrated by the fan response when news broke that Bam Margera would not be included in the game. The outcry led Iron Galaxy to add him at Tony Hawk’s request, highlighting the community’s influence and dedication.
“There are franchises that regularly receive new entries, but they don’t have a fraction of the loyal fan base that THPS does, and it’s time to reward them, beyond remakes.”
As the gaming world anticipates the next chapter in the Tony Hawk saga, the pressure is on Iron Galaxy to deliver a game that honors the series’ legacy while paving the way for future innovation. The potential for a new Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5, free from the shadow of its predecessor, offers an exciting opportunity to redefine the franchise for a new generation.
