Step into the shoes of a rising star in Tony Hawk: RIDE, an experimental departure for the legendary skateboarding franchise. Moving away from traditional button-mashing, this title introduces a revolutionary approach to extreme sports gaming by utilizing a specialized, motion-sensing skateboard controller. Designed to bring the physical sensation of skating into your living room, the game tasks players with building their own skater's career, progressing from a novice to a professional through various challenges and global locations.

Master the Board: Gameplay and Mechanics

The core experience of Tony Hawk: RIDE revolves around its unique peripheral-based control scheme. Eschewing complicated button combinations, the game relies on physical movements and gestures performed on the wireless skateboard controller to execute tricks. The hardware features four infrared sensors—located at the front, back, left, and right—to detect specific motions such as ollies, nollies, and various grab tricks. Players must manipulate the board's tilt and rotation to perform flips, which are categorized into "tilt" and "flick" styles.

The gameplay is divided into several distinct modes that cater to different playstyles:

  • Challenge Mode: Complete specific objectives and trick requirements.
  • Speed Mode: Focus on racing through courses.
  • Trick Mode: Aim for high scores by stringing together complex maneuvers.
  • Free Skate: Explore environments at your own pace.

To assist newcomers, the game features tutorials voiced by Tony Hawk himself, providing tips and guidance as you learn to navigate both street and half-pipe (vert) environments. With over 100 moves to master, the potential for creativity is central to the experience.

A Global Skateboarding Journey

As you progress through your career, you will travel to epic locations across the globe. The game features two primary skating environments: street and vert. Street skating offers a variety of sandbox areas and race-like levels that provide much of the game's exploration, while the vert sections focus on the classic half-pipe experience. While the settings offer a sense of scale, the true focus remains on the freedom of expression through your customized skater's performance.

Key Features of Tony Hawk: RIDE

  • Motion-Sensing Technology: Use the included physical skateboard controller to perform tricks via real-world gestures.
  • Multiplayer Action: Supports up to eight players, allowing you to ride alongside or against friends.
  • Scalable Difficulty: Multiple difficulty levels are available to ensure the game is accessible to various skill levels.
  • Extensive Move Set: Master over 100 different moves, including grabs, flips, and grinds.

Who Is This Game For?

Tony Hawk: RIDE is an ideal choice for fans of party games and those looking for a unique, interactive physical experience. Because the controls are designed to be intuitive and easy to pick up, it appeals to players of various ages. It is particularly suited for gamers who enjoy experimental hardware and want to move away from traditional controller inputs in favor of motion-based sports simulation.

The title is available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii.