Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2: Switch Review

Alright 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 all the nostalgic goodness of the original THPS games with a fresh coat of paint. But how does it hold up on the Switch? Let's break it down.

Gameplay and Nostalgia

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 perfectly captures the feel of the original games. The controls are tight and responsive, making it easy to pull off those classic tricks. Whether you're grinding rails, landing kickflips, or mastering the perfect manual, the gameplay feels incredibly satisfying. The level design is also top-notch, with each stage being a faithful recreation of the originals. From the iconic Warehouse to the sunny beaches of Venice Beach, every level is packed with secrets, challenges, and plenty of opportunities for sick combos. The game does a fantastic job of blending the old with the new. While the gameplay mechanics remain true to the originals, the graphics have been completely overhauled, bringing the levels and characters to life in stunning detail. The soundtrack is also a major highlight, featuring a mix of classic tracks and new additions that perfectly complement the on-screen action. For those who grew up playing the original Tony Hawk's Pro Skater games, this is a trip down memory lane that you won't want to miss. The nostalgia factor alone is worth the price of admission, but the solid gameplay and modern enhancements make it a truly exceptional experience. This game isn't just a remake; it's a loving tribute to a classic franchise that has stood the test of time. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the game, from the character models to the environmental design. It's clear that the developers had a deep respect for the source material, and they went above and beyond to create a game that would appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Graphics and Performance on Switch

Now, let's talk about the visuals and how the game runs on the Nintendo Switch. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 looks surprisingly good on the Switch, but there are some compromises. On the big screen, the game runs at a lower resolution than on other consoles, and you'll notice some jagged edges and less detailed textures. However, the game still looks clean and vibrant, and the art style holds up well. In handheld mode, the resolution is even lower, but the smaller screen size helps to mask some of the graphical imperfections. The game is still perfectly playable and enjoyable in handheld mode, but it's worth noting that the visuals aren't quite as sharp as they are on other platforms. The frame rate is generally stable, but there are occasional dips, especially in more crowded areas. These frame rate drops aren't game-breaking, but they can be a bit distracting at times. Overall, the performance is acceptable, but it's not perfect. If you're a stickler for graphics and frame rates, you might be slightly disappointed. However, if you're willing to sacrifice some visual fidelity for the sake of portability, you'll find that the game is still a lot of fun on the Switch. The ability to play Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the go is a major selling point, and it more than makes up for the graphical compromises. The game's art style is so strong that it transcends the technical limitations of the Switch. The vibrant colors, detailed character models, and imaginative level design all contribute to a visually appealing experience, even on the smaller screen.

Switch-Specific Features

One of the coolest things about Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 on the Nintendo Switch is the portability. Being able to take this game with you on the go is a game-changer. Whether you're on a long car ride, waiting at the airport, or just chilling on the couch, you can always bust out some tricks. The Switch's Joy-Cons work surprisingly well for this game. The controls are responsive and intuitive, and the button layout is perfect for pulling off those classic combos. However, if you're planning on playing for extended periods of time, you might want to invest in a Pro Controller. The Pro Controller is more comfortable to hold, and it offers a more precise and responsive control experience. The game also supports local multiplayer, so you can play with your friends and family on the same console. This is a great way to relive the glory days of couch co-op gaming. The Switch's portability is a huge selling point for Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2. The ability to play this game anywhere, anytime is a major advantage over other platforms. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the series, you'll appreciate the convenience and flexibility that the Switch offers. The game's pick-up-and-play nature makes it perfect for short bursts of gaming, and the depth of the gameplay ensures that you'll always have something new to discover. The Switch version of the game also includes all of the content from the other versions, including the Create-a-Skater and Create-a-Park modes. These modes allow you to customize your skater and create your own levels, adding even more replay value to the game.

Create-a-Skater and Park

Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park modes are back and better than ever, letting you personalize your skating experience. Create-A-Skater lets you design your own skater with tons of options for clothing, hairstyles, and accessories. You can even scan your own face into the game! Create-A-Park is where things get really interesting. This mode allows you to build your own skate parks from the ground up. You can choose from a variety of ramps, rails, and other obstacles, and you can even customize the layout and design of your park. Once you've created your dream park, you can share it with the world and download parks created by other players. The possibilities are endless! These modes add a ton of replay value to Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2. Whether you're a creative type who loves to design and build, or you just want to try out some new challenges, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained. The ability to share your creations with the community is a great way to connect with other players and discover new and exciting parks. Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park are essential components of the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater experience. They allow you to express your creativity, customize your gameplay, and connect with other players. If you're looking for a game that offers endless possibilities, look no further than Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2. The level of customization is unparalleled, and the community support is incredible. You'll never run out of new things to try, new parks to explore, and new skaters to create. The game truly empowers you to be yourself and express your individuality through skateboarding. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the series, you'll find that Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park are essential tools for creating your own unique Tony Hawk's Pro Skater experience.

Final Verdict

So, is Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 worth buying on the Nintendo Switch? Absolutely! Despite the graphical compromises, the gameplay is still fantastic, the nostalgia is strong, and the portability is a major selling point. If you're a fan of the original games or just looking for a fun and challenging skateboarding game, you won't be disappointed. Just be aware of the visual limitations and occasional frame rate drops. Overall, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 is a great addition to the Switch library, and it's a must-have for fans of the series. The game's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and the overall experience is incredibly enjoyable. Whether you're grinding rails, landing kickflips, or creating your own skate parks, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained for hours on end. The game's replay value is off the charts, and the community support is incredible. You'll never run out of new things to try, new parks to explore, and new skaters to create. The game truly captures the spirit of the original Tony Hawk's Pro Skater games, and it's a loving tribute to a classic franchise that has stood the test of time. If you're on the fence about buying this game, I highly recommend giving it a try. You won't regret it!