Pros: Improved Gameplay; Outstanding Graphics; Loads of Options/Extras; Top Notch Park Editor.
Cons: Limited # of Parks; Limited Music Variety/Quantity; Doesn't Support Custom Tracks (YET)
The Bottom Line: Whether you're into skateboarding games or not, check out THPS3. Tony Hawk has reached his peak in terms of quality, and you can't miss the fun that this game offers.
express15_99's Full Review: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 for PlayStation 2
This game is unlike any other skateboarding game out there. It features everything a fan of the series ever wanted, plus some. The game is fun to play, alone or with others, and will keep you going for a long time. There's a boatload of extras to unlock, and the varied game modes are more than most can handle. This time around, Activision finally got everything in and got it all right.
GRAPHICS: If you know good graphics when you see them, picture them here. Shimmering surfaces, details galore, and real-time pedestrians, it just couldn't get any better. The player models are very realistic, and are animated with great precision for each more and trick. The backgrounds and scenery are top notch, full with vibrant colors and no draw in that plagues some games today. I believe this game runs at an even 60fps (frames per second), because there is no visible slowdown even in the massive online multiplayer modes. In terms of graphics, this game only has minimal competition against games like Gran Turismo 3 and Metal Gear Solid 2.
SOUND: There is a good amount of music in THPS3, and it all comes together really well. Motorhead and other famous bands provide the music this time around. The sound effects are great, from the grind of a pipe, to the sound of crunching bones when you fall down. All the music is clear and can be called cd quality. The songs, even though are good, get old after a few days. A customizable song track list is another nice goody.
GAMEPLAY: Fast paced gameplay only pays off when the controls are at their best. Look no farther. While zooming around any level, there is no feeling that a button is in the wrong place or feels awkward. Combos are easy to pull off once you learn how to use each button accordingly. This game is substancially easier to play than the first two, and it shows. Not only is it easy for veterans, but just as simple for the Tony Hawk newcomers.
REPLAY VALUE: As if career mode and multiplayer modes weren't enough, they've added a park editor, skater creator, unlockable goodies, and even online play! There is no shortage of fun for anyone here, since you'll be playing this for a long time. Grab some friends (don't forget a MultiTap), pizza, and your party is set.
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