"Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4" scared me at first. The gameplay was completely different, and at first I didn't like that. But after a while, I realized the game is much more challenging than its predecessors, and has excellently detailed, fully immersible, larger levels, as well as many more options and improved graphics and physics.
I'm not sure if it is, overall, my favorite Pro Skater game. I don't think I've had quite as much fun, per say, as I did playing the other three.
I personally think they should end the franchise now. They are ahead, and should stay that way while they can.
The real-life Hawk's popularity is practically over. He isn't what kids are talking about anymore. Just like yo-yos and Pokemon, every franchise has to eventually end, and I think Hawk should retire professionally and end his video game ring. He should stop while he's ahead.
Other than that, die hard fans of the original Tony Hawk video games might be disappointed in this new game. I myself enjoy some of the aspects, but find myself also missing other aspects of the game.
Close to the best, but not quite there.
4.5/5 stars --
John Ulmer
