Major Feature Missing in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is generating buzz for both its exciting updates and controversial omissions. Fans of the classic games will note that Bam Margera, a familiar name from the original versions, is not going to be a part of this fresh installment. This upcoming collection, which draws from the legacy of the beloved Pro Skater 3 and 4 titles, is set to introduce significant changes this time around.

Following in the footsteps of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2, this new edition promises stunning graphical enhancements. But the upgrades don’t stop there; players can look forward to an array of new skaters, innovative park designs, refined controls, a refreshed soundtrack, and exciting online multiplayer modes. While this new content is certainly appealing, some alterations have sparked debate within the Pro Skater community.

The absence of Bam Margera, a fan-favorite skateboarder from the original titles, is a big change that’s raising eyebrows. Margera’s off-screen struggles with legal issues and substance abuse may have influenced the decision, though there hasn’t been an official word from the developers addressing his exclusion. In the past games, Margera didn’t just skate; he was integral to the experience, even handing out missions in Pro Skater 4.

Another significant shift in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is the removal of Pro Skater 4’s Career mode. Instead, the game reverts to a 2-minute challenge system that harks back to earlier versions. While this move aims to create a seamless blend between the two games, it has left some fans disenchanted, who hoped for a faithful remake of Pro Skater 4.

The exclusion of Margera from this remake has also led to fears about future remakes in the Tony Hawk series. Margera was prominently featured in Tony Hawk’s Underground 2, playing a key role in both the narrative and the gameplay. Many fans worry that without his involvement, revisiting Underground 2 with a remake could be impossible. Unless a resolution is found regarding Margera, these classic games may remain locked in the past on older consoles.

On a brighter note, not all is contentious among the updates to Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. Xbox fans will be pleased to learn that on launch day in July, the game will be part of the Xbox Game Pass lineup, offering an affordable way to dive into this reinvented skateboarding world without having to shell out the full retail price.