Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 5: Release Date, Playable Skaters, Features and Preview

Activision, Robomodo and Disruptive Games are bringing the legendary Tony Hawk brand back to the video game world. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 5 is set to release for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on September 29, and on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on November 10, per a press release provided to Bleacher Report.

This is the first THPS title in 13 years.

Because it's also the first next-generation skating title, THPS 5 will have a lot of eyes on it. The game will feature single player and online multiplayer (only on XB1 and PS4). The online component will have a dedicated server to support as many as 20 players in a session at once.

THPS gameplay has long been associated with traditional skating combos that have a pick-up-and-play quality. Without a myriad of complicated controls, the previous games were simply fun for virtual skateboarding fans. The objective with THPS 5 is to build on that foundation while introducing the brand to an entirely new generation.

Ways to Play

Single-player action is all about stringing together gnarly combinations with what Activision is calling "cutting-edge accuracy" within the control system. While you'll be skating alone in these modes, you'll be able to level up your player by completing objectives and challenges.

In the multiplayer mode, gamers will skate with friends or compete against other players from around the world. There are cooperative and competitive missions to complete that will unlock content and provide the ability to improve your skater's attributes.

The developers have designed the lobbies to function as freeskate levels to keep gamers active while they are waiting to enter a session.

Levels and Style

image provided by Activision

The overall look of the game has changed over the last few months, with the game undergoing an artistic makeover in August. It was on display at Gamescom and, per Brian Albert of IGN.com, a representative from Activision said, "There's been a marked upgrade in the graphics."

The game ditched its more retro look for a funkier, more modern vibe. There are over 80 missions that span nine different environments, and all of them have received a visual touch-up.

It's not just the environments that look different; the skaters are even rendered differently than they were before. It's an interesting change to make so close to launch.

There are 10 skaters included in the game: Tony Hawk, Nyjah Huston, Riley Hawk, Aaron “Jaws” Homoki, Lizzie Armanto, Leticia Bufoni, Chris Cole, David Gonzalez, Andrew Reynolds, and Ishod Wair.

Customization

You can also create your own character that can be taken into the single-player and multiplayer aspects of the game. Perhaps the most exciting option in the upcoming game is the feature that allows you to build and share skateparks.

Using 250 unique objects and environments, gamers can create challenging designs they can share with the community. Virtual skaters can get ready to kick, push and create on Tuesday.

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