Skateboarding has always been about freedom, creativity, and culture. It's a sport, an art form, and a way of life, all rolled into one. This spirit of skateboarding is often captured and translated into video games, offering virtual skateboarders a chance to ride, flip, and grind in a pixelated world. In 2024, there's no shortage of excellent skateboarding titles to dive into. From iconic re-releases to innovative indies, here's a list of the best skateboard games you should be playing right now: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 and 2, Skater XL, Tanuki Sunset, Skate City, OlliOlli World, and Skatebird.
1. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 and 2
The return of the king. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 and 2 are remastered versions of the iconic late 90s and early 2000s titles that defined a gaming generation. With crisp, modern graphics, refined gameplay mechanics, and that nostalgic soundtrack, the remastered versions are a love letter to every player who spent hours attempting the perfect combo in the Warehouse or the School levels. The games beautifully capture the essence of the skateboarding culture during that era, featuring legendary skaters, memorable locations, and the same addictive, arcade-style gameplay that made the original games so beloved. Whether you're revisiting the game or picking up the board for the first time, these titles are a must-play.
2. Skater XL
Skater XL offers a different, more simulated take on skateboarding. Eschewing arcade-style mechanics, the game is all about physics and authenticity. Here, each foot is controlled by a different thumbstick, offering unparalleled control over the skateboard. The open-world maps, modeled after iconic skateboarding locations, are your playground. There are no missions or timers - just you, the board, and the concrete. The community around the game is active, regularly creating mods that offer new decks, clothes, and even entirely new maps. Skater XL is more than just a game; it's a genuine skateboarding simulation experience.
3. Tanuki Sunset
Tanuki Sunset takes a unique spin on the skateboarding genre. Players control a tanuki (a raccoon dog from Japanese folklore) cruising downhill on a longboard. The aesthetic is vibrant and surreal, reminiscent of sun-soaked, neon-infused 80s visuals. As you weave through traffic, collect items, and perform tricks, there's an exhilarating sense of speed and flow. It's not traditional by any means, but its charming visuals, catchy tunes, and straightforward mechanics make it a standout title that's perfect for quick play sessions.
4. Skate City
If you're looking for a more relaxed, casual skateboarding experience, Skate City has got you covered. With its side-scrolling perspective, this game is all about stringing together tricks and combos in various urban settings. The visuals are stylized and serene, with each city having its unique backdrop and vibe. The controls are intuitive, allowing players to execute a myriad of tricks with simple gestures. From the beaches of Los Angeles to the streets of Oslo, Skate City captures the essence of street skating in a laid-back, accessible manner.
5. OlliOlli World
From the creators of the OlliOlli series, OlliOlli World takes the side-scrolling skateboarding gameplay to a whimsically vibrant world. The game features a rich, story-driven adventure where players traverse through the fantastical land of Radland in search of skateboarding enlightenment. The levels are filled with challenges, secrets, and quirky characters to interact with. Its art style is distinct and colorful, and the trick mechanics are both challenging and satisfying. It's a fresh, stylish take on the skateboarding genre.
6. Skatebird
Ever thought about skateboarding as a bird? Well, Skatebird lets you live that fantasy! In this adorable indie title, you play as a tiny skateboard-loving bird trying to skate through miniature skateparks made out of everyday objects. From flipping over pencils to grinding on bendy straws, the game offers a fresh perspective, quite literally. Its lighthearted approach, combined with responsive mechanics and charming visuals, makes Skatebird a delightful experience for players of all ages.
Want to play these games in a virtual LAN party with friends? Download our free Playtest on Steam!
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