The Birdman Himself Wants To Remake This Title Next

The Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series has long been a staple in the gaming world, known for its exhilarating skateboarding gameplay and memorable soundtracks, with the star power of the Birdman Tony Hawk, the best known and greatest skater out there. This series of games was more arcade-like in nature and have since been re-mastered/re-made.

Alongside the many titles in the franchise was Tony Hawk’s Underground. Released in 2003, stands out for its innovative approach and lasting impact. As fans reminisce about the game’s unique features and storyline, the question arises: will there ever be a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake?

The Legacy of Tony Hawk’s Underground

Tony Hawk’s Underground marked a significant departure from its predecessors by introducing a narrative-driven experience. Players assumed the role of a customisable character, embarking on a journey from an unknown skater to a global sensation. The game featured expansive levels, a robust trick system, and a storyline that resonated with players, making it a beloved entry in the series.

The biggest change compared to Pro Skater is that there is a full storyline in this game. Players will travel around the world from the big apple of New York to Red Square in Moscow. All the while having to deal with best friend turned rival Eric, one of the most dislikable villains in gaming.

It featured appearances from a host of popular skaters like Bam Margera, Chad Muska and the Birdman himself, Tony Hawk. There was even a sequel, which moved more towards an arcade style game, rather than completing a variety of tasks for a story, the game sets players into team Hawk and team Bam as they prank each-other.

A Hawks Caw for a Remake

Over the years, the gaming community has expressed a strong desire for a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake. The original game’s charm and innovative mechanics have left fans yearning for a modernised version that captures the essence of the classic while introducing enhancements for current-generation consoles.

Tony Hawk himself has voiced his support for a potential remake of Tony Hawk’s Underground. In interviews, he has mentioned his aspirations for a remastered version, acknowledging the game’s special place in the hearts of fans. However, Hawk has also clarified that the decision ultimately lies with Activision, the game’s publisher. He has expressed his willingness to campaign for the project, emphasising the importance of fan support in making it a reality.

Challenges in Development

Despite the enthusiasm from both fans and Hawk, several challenges hinder the development of a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake. Reports indicate that the team behind the recent Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 remake was laid off, casting doubt on the immediate future of the franchise. Additionally, the gaming industry landscape has shifted, with publishers focusing on new intellectual properties and franchises, making it difficult for legacy titles to secure development resources.

While the obstacles are significant, the possibility of a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake remains. The success of recent remakes in the gaming industry demonstrates a market demand for revitalised classics. If Activision recognises the enduring popularity of THUG and the potential for a successful remake, the project could move forward. Fan campaigns and continued support for the franchise may also influence the decision-making process.

What Fans Could Hope To Expect

Should a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake come to fruition, fans can anticipate several enhancements:

Improved Graphics: Leveraging current-generation hardware to deliver stunning visuals and detailed environments.
Expanded Storyline: Building upon the original narrative with deeper character development and new plot twists.
Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics: Refining the trick system and introducing new gameplay elements to keep the experience fresh.
Online Features: Implementing online multiplayer modes and community features to engage players worldwide.

These improvements would hopefully aim to preserve the spirit of the original while introducing modern enhancements to appeal to both nostalgic fans and new players.

The prospect of a Tony Hawk’s Underground remake excites both longtime fans and newcomers to the series. While challenges exist, the combined efforts of Tony Hawk, Activision, and the gaming community can potentially bring this vision to life. As the gaming industry continues to embrace remakes and remasters, the time may be ripe for Tony Hawk’s Underground to make its triumphant return.