Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 Loses Free Roam Mode | Image Source: www.pushsquare.com
LOS ANGELES, March 07, 2025 – Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise fans look forward to Tony Hawk’s release of Pro Skater 3 + 4, a modern remake of the favourite skateboard games since the early 2000s. However, recent revelations about changes in the structure of the game have caused disappointment among players in the long term. Activation confirmed that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 4 (THPS4) will no longer have the free vagrant structure of its original PlayStation 2 version, rather than adopting the two-minute format based on the challenges used in previous games.
According to Kotaku, the change was noted when the PlayStation Store description referred to the “two-minute epic format” compared to THPS4. Now Activision has made it official: each THPS4 level will be restructured to fit the classic two-minute format seen in THPS1, THPS2 and THPS3. Although free skating is still available, players will not be able to meet certain level challenges outside the scheduled sessions. This marks an important release of THPS4, which allowed players to explore levels at their own pace, discover and organically complete.
Why is this change controversial?
For many fans, THPS4 was a turning point in the series. Unlike the first three games, which structure targets within strict deadlines, THPS4 introduced a more open career style. Players can skate freely, interact with NPC and reach complete targets without constantly looking at the clock. This more relaxed approach eventually led to the evolution of franchise in the fully open design seen in Tony Hawk’s Metro (THUG).
By reversing the THPS4 format in time format, some players feel that the remake takes a step back. As a user in the lamented subreddit r / THPS, ”It’s not THPS4. It’s THPS3 with extra cards.” Many expected the open nature of THPS4 to remain intact, as it represented a bridge between the old arcade format and the most narrative experience of subsequent titles.
What can players still expect?
Despite the regression from career mode, THPS3+4 continues to be an exciting version. The game is developed by Iron Galaxy, the study behind the remake THPS1 + 2 well received from 2020. You will present a complete list of classic and modern skaters, updated graphics, improved game mechanisms and new content to keep players engaged.
This is what is included:
- Original levels: Every park from THPS3 and THPS4 will return, rebuilt with modern visuals.
- New maps: The remake introduces fresh skate parks, including an abandoned waterpark in the Mojave Desert.
- Updated soundtrack: A mix of classic tracks and new songs inspired by modern skate culture.
- Cross-platform multiplayer: Up to eight players can skate together online in Free Skate or competitive modes.
- Customization: Players can create and customize their own skater, choosing from a variety of decks, apparel, and tricks.
Will there be a free skating mode?
Yes, THPS3+4 will always include a free Skate mode, allowing players to explore timeless levels. However, the main warning is that the objectives can only be achieved as part of the two-minute challenge structure. This means that if players can still practice laps, gaps and lines, they will not be able to progress in running mode outside of time races.
For some, he’s a negotiator. Free Skate was an integral part of the THPS4 experience, offering a level of immersion and freedom that was not present in previous games. With this change, some fans fear that THPS3+4 is more conceived as a nostalgia experience than a faithful recreation of what made each game unique.
Bonds and special indices
For those who are still excited about the game, Activision offers several previous incentives. Players who pre-order the game will quickly have access to a special casting demonstration in June, with two playable skaters, two parks, and a selection of songs from the game’s soundtrack.
In addition, a Digital Deluxe edition will include:
- Early access: Play the game three days before launch.
- Exclusive skaters: Doom Slayer and Revenant join the roster, complete with special tricks.
- Extra customization options: Unique skate decks, grip tapes, and apparel.
For hardcore fans, a Collector’s Edition will also be available. This limited edition package includes a full-size skateboard cover with a classic Tony Hawk design and a printed autograph.
Is this change a mistake?
Ultimately, if this change is a negotiator, it depends on the type of experience of the players they are looking for. Those who loved the classic two-minute structure will probably appreciate the simplified approach. However, for fans who have seen THPS4 as a crucial step in the evolution of the franchise, this remake may seem a missed opportunity.
According to Push Square, the decision to remove the free turn could be linked to maintain consistency with the first three games. The THPS1 + 2 remake was widely praised for its faithful recreation of the original experience, and Activation may believe that membership in the same format will lead to similar success. However, given the passionate reaction of the community, it remains to be seen whether this approach will pay off.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 released on July 11, 2025 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC. Will nostalgia be enough to overcome career changes? Time will tell.
