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Our latest Trading Card Spotlight highlights Tony Hawk, featured on card number 3522 from the Superstars of 2021 Collection. Tony Hawk is synonymous with skateboarding; his influence rivals that of the greatest names in professional sports. Notably, he was the first to successfully execute a “900,” a trick he had aimed to perfect for nearly a decade. This achievement occurred at the dawn of his foray into video games with the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise, which has grown to become one of the most successful series in gaming history, amassing over 1.4 billion dollars in sales. On December 4, 2020, the documentary “Pretending I’m a Superman – The Tony Hawk Video Game Story” was released, chronicling his legacy in gaming.
What was your initial impression of the original Tony Hawk Pro Skater game? Any changes you would have suggested?
I was amazed at the freedom we had to create something so authentic. I was eager to share it with fellow skaters, though it felt niche at the time. I only suggested minor tweaks to some tricks and advocated for more additions.
What does it take to be digitally recreated in a video game? How long does that process take?
The process involves scanning and photographing from various angles for a couple of hours. You step into a room lined with cameras, and the developers then translate that data into a digital character.
If you had to choose one game from the THPS series as your favorite, which would it be and why?
THPS2 solidified our franchise and included features I felt were missing from the original. Plus, the soundtrack is one of my all-time favorites.
What is the first video game you ever played, and what stands out from that experience?
Pac-Man was the first, but Missile Command kept pulling me back to the arcade. I loved the trackball mechanism and the thrill of trying to blanket the screen with explosions to halt incoming fire, even though there was always that one enemy that sneaked through on harder levels.
What are your thoughts on today’s generation of video games compared to the classics?
They capture the same excitement we had in our youth, but now everything is ultra-realistic. However, I don’t think any current game can replicate the satisfaction of executing a flawless long jump in Track & Field.
Did you ever imagine as a child that you would appear on a video game trading card?
Not at all. I didn’t picture skateboarding ever getting mainstream enough for trading cards.
What’s your favorite portable gaming device and why?
The Nintendo Switch is a technological wonder. I’m still in awe that it’s portable.
What games do you play today, and what genres do you enjoy?
I don’t play much unless I’m developing a new THPS title. If I do, I tend to play Mario games with my daughter or humorous games like Untitled Goose Game.
If you could own any arcade or pinball game, which would it be and why?
I have a Skateball pinball machine as it’s the first arcade game featuring skateboarding imagery. If I had more space, I’d love to add a 720 cabinet and Top Skater.
How has the music in Tony Hawk games impacted the gaming experience?
That’s for the fans to say. I hope it immerses players in the skate culture through our music, style, and artwork.
Do you believe video games primarily target children, teens, or adults?
These days, the primary audience is young adults. However, it’s evident that newer generations continue gaming well into adulthood.
What are your thoughts on Hollywood adapting video games into films?
It can be hit or miss, but I’d be open to collaborating on a THPS movie if the opportunity arises.
When you hear ‘Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2,’ what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
The intro video with Guerrilla Radio playing.
Do you think some video games contain too much violence and contribute to societal issues?
While some do feature excessive violence, I don’t think they are the root cause of violence. The same games available in the U.S. are played globally, and the comparisons with violent acts don’t hold up.
What’s your favorite single-player and multiplayer game?
Single-player: THPS; Multiplayer: Mario Kart 8.
If you could create any game outside of THPS, what would it be about and who would be the main character?
I’d love to revive the excitement of Kelly Slater’s Pro Surfer for modern consoles, and I’d want to have myself as a secret character.
If you weren’t a professional skateboarder, what would you be doing?
I’d likely be involved in digital media, working with video editing or production—I got into it early and even bought a Video Toaster in 1991.
Are you still involved in making more Tony Hawk Pro Skater games? What is your role?
I hope to remain involved, but that ultimately lies with Activision. My job involves extensive playtesting and providing feedback on accuracy and authenticity.
Where do you see the future of video gaming in the next two decades?
I believe video gaming will become as integral to society as music and movies. We’re already there in many ways, but I foresee growing inclusion across generations and demographics.
This article is part of an ongoing series featuring the Walter Day Collection of e-sports and video gaming trading cards. For more information, visit thewalterdaycollection.com.
Original article by www.oldschoolgamermagazine.com
