Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4: A New Era for Skateboarding Games

The recently announced Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 made a significant impression during the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct presentation. Given its release on both the Switch 1 and the anticipated successor console, its inclusion was expected. However, the highlight of the trailer revealed the iconic Skater Island level, featuring a surprise crossover into the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom from the beloved SpongeBob SquarePants.

Initial Reservations About Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4

Missing Features Impacting My Decision

As the details for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 emerged, I found myself hesitant to purchase the game. As a long-time fan who still enjoys playing the original Xbox versions of both titles, the absence of key features disheartened me. Notably, several prominent professional skaters, such as Bam Margera and Mike Vallely, appeared to be left out of this remaster.

Bam has been a staple in the Tony Hawk franchise since Pro Skater 3 and throughout subsequent titles until Proving Ground in 2007. His absence was particularly disappointing. However, there’s a glimmer of hope as revealed through an episode of The Nine Club podcast, which noted that Bam’s inclusion was negotiated at Tony Hawk’s insistence, albeit at the last minute. We’ll have to wait for official confirmation on this front.

Additionally, the omission of the career mode from Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 was another crucial factor affecting my decision. This innovative feature added depth to the gameplay, allowing players to explore larger, more elaborate levels without the restrictive time limit that typically accompanies challenges. Removing this unique aspect diminishes the game’s overall appeal.

I’m Now Sold on Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 Thanks to the SpongeBob Collaboration

Secret Skaters Adding New Excitement

The recent reveal of the SpongeBob SquarePants collaboration has completely changed my perspective on Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4. It comes at a time when fan interest in unique collaborations is higher than ever. Given the franchise’s long-standing tradition of including surprise characters — like Darth Maul and Spider-Man — the introduction of a secret area inspired by Bikini Bottom is thrilling.

While Doomguy from the Doom franchise will return as a character exclusive to the Digital Deluxe Edition, the implications of this SpongeBob-themed secret level could hint at more expansive alterations to the game. The nostalgia surrounding both franchises from the early 2000s positions this crossover as a logical and exciting choice. It also indicates the possibility of further collaborations, something fans greatly crave.

If they take the leap to include even more content, such as playable characters like SpongeBob, Patrick, or Squidward, it could amplify this experience immensely. The chance to skate as these beloved characters is enticing and would certainly differentiate this installment from previous titles, which have never showcased them before.

With recent crossovers and additional characters in gaming on the rise, I can’t help but feel that this collaboration has the potential to elevate Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 beyond initial reservations. The excitement surrounding the game is palpable, and as a nostalgic fan, I can’t resist the thrill of skateboarding alongside SpongeBob and friends.

For more updates on the game, check out these sources: The Nine Club, VGC, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater/YouTube.

Source: Screen Rant