It seems that many PC game players generally ignore console systems and their “hot” games, but some make such a splash we can't help but wonder what all the fuss is about. Titles like Resident Evil, Chu Chu Rocket, Seaman, Golden Eye, Final Fantasy and Zelda resonate far beyond their chosen platform. That's what makes porting them to the PC such a good idea. Sadly, the generally poor quality of most ports makes it a bad idea as well. All that said, you've probably heard of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and the more recently released sequel. Good news: Activision has brought it to your PC with almost as much style, grace, athleticism and attitude as the man himself.
So, what is all the hoopla about? It's about skateboarding; its about freedom, attitude and frankly it'es about time the PC saw something like this. In many ways Tony Hawk 2 flies into the face of PC convention. It's all about manual dexterity, timing and creativity. You get a level, obstacles, power-ups and a time limit, go do your thing, perform as many boss tricks as you can and win the prize-money. Winning and losing all come down to how quick and fly you are on the pad, how well you can string together combos and how daring you play. It's unlike any other sports game in that way, it's a breath of fresh air and a horrible trial by fire all at the same time.
Tony Hawk just may make some of you feel old. Kinda like how your parents felt watching you flip the score in Asteroids when you were a kid. Man, Tony Hawk is just plain hard! But that's a good thing. It rewards practice and skill and the rewards make the game cooler and set the hooks for a gaming addiction.