Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 (PlayStation 2) review "THPS3 was not as anticipated as I thought it would be, like the second one was hugely popular when it first launched. This makes me mad, as the third installment for the PS2 is by far the cream of the crop. It has so many improvements and is so much more lifelike than the other two it is unreal. The graphics, audio, gameplay, controls, everything has been changed/improved. Whenever I say changes, I mean for the better. Now onto the review! "

THPS3 was not as anticipated as I thought it would be, like the second one was hugely popular when it first launched. This makes me mad, as the third installment for the PS2 is by far the cream of the crop. It has so many improvements and is so much more lifelike than the other two it is unreal. The graphics, audio, gameplay, controls, everything has been changed/improved. Whenever I say changes, I mean for the better. Now onto the review!

Graphics: 10+10

These graphics are far, far superior to any THPS thus far. This is because of the PS2's power, along with the fact that the developers also made an effort. They are all smooth, clean, well-flowing, clean, crisp, clear, detailed, and colorful. Truly pleasing to the eye. From what I have seen thus far, I have not detected any slowdown at all. The environments all look like they would in real life, and that adds to the game a lot.

Audio: 10/10

I love the new THPS3 soundtrack! In the first
three levels I memorized every single song! You can tell that the developers made a good attempt at creating some good sound effects, and it shows. The songs are all punk (like always), the sound effects are clear and distinct, and also realistic sounding. The audio is superb overall. I can't really say anymore, you have to hear it yourself.

Controls: 10+/10

Exactly the same as the original two games with one addition: the revert. Just like with manuals in the second installment, it'll take time to get used to, but you'll be pulling reverts left and right in no time at all. But if you can pull a 200,000 point combo in THPS2, I guarantee you'll be able to pull a 300,000 point combo at least on your first try, given the right level (Canada for me). They are quick, responsive, and generally better than the old PSX pad. Great job at the controls as usual; it wouldn't be worthy of the THPS name without the traditional THPS controls.

Gameplay: 10+/10

THPS3 PS2 is the ultimate game. THPS3 gameplay
resembles that of the original THPS than the second. I don't know why really, but it just gives me that feeling. You skate around with one of I believe twelve pro skaters, and do certain tasks. These range widely, from obtaining scores of 100,000 to entering graveyards, to knocking people over. They are all very fun, and vary greatly in difficulty.

Replay Value: 10+/10

THPS3 for PS2 has virtually interminable replay value. The possibilities are endless, with the huge, free-roaming worlds. I don't know how the PS2, with its measly 4MB of VRAM, did it. But, somehow, it did. Anyway, the game is humorous as well, and that adds to the replay value. Overall, you'll stay glued to the TV screen for hours on end playing Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 for the PS2. I'd take it over the XBox or GameCube versions any day. Thank you.

- TheRedBaron

Community review by theredbaron47 (Date unavailable) A bio for this contributor is currently unavailable, but check back soon to see if that changes. If you are the author of this review, you can update your bio from the Settings page.