20 PS2 Games That Still Hold Up
9. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3
Like the best sequels, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 built upon the gameplay of the previous instalments while pushing the boundaries of what a sports game could achieve. By introducing the revert mechanic, THPS3 revolutionised combo potential and elevated the skill standard to unprecedented levels.
The Tony Hawk title also showcased an impeccable balance between accessibility and depth. Its levels were meticulously crafted playgrounds filled with imaginative lines, hidden gaps, and layered objectives. It rewarded exploration and experimentation, encouraging players to devise their own style. The game struck a rare harmony, since it was easy to pick up, yet endlessly deep for those willing to invest the time.
It also boasted some of the most entertainingly secret characters in gaming. (I mean, who doesn't want to perform ollies and kickflips as Darth Maul or Wolverine?)
On top of that, Pro Skater 3's cultural impact cannot be overstated, since it was the first PS2 game to feature online play, changing the landscape of console gaming forever.
With all these factors in mind, it's obvious Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 isn't just a brilliant skateboarding title, but a work of art.