TONY HAWK'S UNDERGOUND PS2 (2003)

Tony Hawk's Underground (THUG), released in 2003, marked a significant evolution in the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series, bringing numerous innovative features that distinguished it from its predecessors. It was developed by Neversoft and published by Activision for various platforms, including PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox, and later Windows. The game not only expanded the mechanics of skateboarding games but also introduced elements of storytelling and player customization that would influence future titles in the genre.
Detailed Overview
1. Development and Release:
Development Background: Neversoft, the studio behind the successful Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series, was tasked with evolving the series beyond the traditional skating mechanics that had defined the first four games. The decision to introduce a narrative-driven experience came as the developers wanted to keep the series fresh and engaging, especially with the rapidly growing competition in the extreme sports genre.
Release: THUG was released in October 2003 for PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Xbox, and in 2004 for Windows. It was later ported to Game Boy Advance in a 2D version and to mobile phones.
2. Gameplay Mechanics:
Story Mode: THUG’s story mode was a significant departure from the standard level-based structure of previous Tony Hawk games. Players assume the role of a customizable skater who begins as an unknown amateur and progresses to professional status. The narrative involves a mix of skateboarding challenges, rivalries, and personal growth, with key characters like Eric Sparrow, who serves as the player's rival throughout the game.
Open-World Exploration: The game features several real-world inspired environments, including New Jersey, Manhattan, Tampa, and Moscow. Each area is open for exploration, with players able to skate, interact with NPCs, and complete various missions. Unlike previous games, which had a time limit for objectives, THUG’s missions often allowed players to take their time, encouraging exploration and experimentation.
Off-Board Movement: For the first time in the series, players could dismount their skateboard and walk around the environment. This ability allowed for new gameplay dynamics, such as climbing ladders, entering buildings, and exploring areas that were previously unreachable on a skateboard. It also facilitated puzzle-like challenges where players had to combine skating and on-foot movement to complete objectives.
Customization: THUG provided extensive customization options. Players could design their skater's appearance, create custom tricks, and even build their own skate parks using the game's robust editor. The Create-a-Trick mode allowed players to design and name their own tricks, which could be seamlessly integrated into their trick repertoire.
Vehicles: In certain levels, players could also drive vehicles like cars, scooters, and more, which was another new addition to the series. These vehicles were often used in missions or to access hidden areas of the map.
3. Story and Characters:
Plot: The story is a rags-to-riches tale, with the player’s character starting out in a small town in New Jersey. The narrative progresses through various competitions and events as the player travels the world, gaining fame and sponsorships. However, the story takes a darker turn as Eric Sparrow, the player's childhood friend, betrays them multiple times, culminating in a final showdown where the player must reclaim their stolen trick tape and restore their reputation.
Key Characters:
Player Character: Fully customizable, the character serves as the player’s avatar throughout the story. The customization includes not just appearance but also stats that improve as the game progresses.
Eric Sparrow: The main antagonist, Eric starts as the player's best friend but turns into a rival, betraying the player multiple times to advance his own career.
Pro Skaters: The game features several real-life pro skaters, including Tony Hawk, Bam Margera, Chad Muska, and others. These characters appear throughout the story, often providing mentorship or challenges to the player.
4. Multiplayer:
Modes: THUG included several multiplayer modes, both competitive and cooperative. Players could engage in traditional trick attack modes, as well as new modes that utilized the game's open-world environments.
Online Play: For the first time in the series, THUG included online play, allowing players to connect and compete with others around the world. This feature was available on the PlayStation 2 and Xbox versions and added significant replay value to the game.
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