A Nostalgic Reboot with a Modern Twist

The highly anticipated Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, slated for release later this year, promises a revitalized experience, merging the iconic levels and skaters from the original Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 (2001) and its 2002 sequel with fresh content. Though, one aspect of the reboot has sparked debate: the soundtrack.

Soundtrack Evolution: Balancing Nostalgia and New Sounds

Earlier this month, the initial tracklist for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 was revealed, showcasing a blend of familiar favorites and contemporary artists. Classic tracks like CKY’s ’96 Quite Bitter Beings’ (famously associated with Jackass), Motörhead’s ‘Ace of Spades’, and Adolescents’ ‘Amoeba’ from Tony hawk’s Pro Skater 3 are set to return. Gang Starr’s ‘Mass Appeal’ from Pro Skater 4 will also make a comeback. Adding to the mix are newer artists such as Turnstile, Injury reserve, and Kendrick Lamar, injecting a modern energy into the game.

Hawk’s Rationale: Finding and Fresh Perspectives

A second wave of artists was recently announced, featuring Iron Maiden and Soul, both previously featured in pro Skater 4. However, instead of simply rehashing old favorites, 3 + 4 will showcase different tracks from their discographies. iron Maiden’s ‘The Number of the Beast’ is replaced by ‘2 Minutes to Midnight’,while Soul’s ‘Rock Co.Kane Flow’ takes the place of ‘Oodles of O’s’.

Tony Hawk addressed the changes on Instagram, stating that the decision to select different songs from returning artists was intentional. He expressed his hope that the discovery is half of the pleasure, and a great reason why these soundtracks resounded in the first place. He encouraged fans to listen and enjoy the ride, hinting at more additions, both old and new, to come.

It was my choice to choose different songs from the same artists presented in ‘Tony Hawk 3 + 4 professional skater Ost ‘. I hope that the discovery is half of the pleasure, and a great reason why these soundtracks resounded in the first place. So listen and enjoy the ride. More to come … both old and new.Tony Hawk, Instagram

Capturing the Modern Skateboarding Ethos

Activision has stated that the soundtrack aims to capture the spirit of culture of modern skateboarding. This approach reflects the evolving tastes and influences within the skateboarding community, which has always embraced a diverse range of musical genres. The inclusion of artists like 100 gecs with ‘Hollywood baby’, Fontaines D.C. with ‘Boys in the Better Land’, and KennyHoopla’s collaboration with Travis Barker on ‘Hollywood Sucks’ further underscores this commitment to representing contemporary skateboarding culture.

Beyond the Music: A Community Focus

Beyond the soundtrack, there have been reports that Tony Hawk advocated for the inclusion of OG skater Bam Margera in Pro Skater 3 + 4 after he was initially excluded. This highlights Hawk’s commitment to the skateboarding community and his desire to ensure that the game reflects the history and diversity of the sport.