Skate City review

Skate City is a 2D arcade skateboarding game where players are tasked to pull off tricks displayed on the screen within the time limit. The best way to describe it is to think of it as a simplistic Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater set in a 2D environment.

The controls in Skate City are very simplistic; each trick such as flip tricks, grabs is executed with either the left or right joystick; moving either joystick in a direction will pull off a unique trick. You can also add a little twist to your move by spinning around with the LB or RB bumper buttons. You can gain speed by pressing A repeatedly which is obviously required to cover large gaps or jump obstacles.

If you press the LT or RT while in the air, you’ll land in a manual or a grind (if near a bench for example). For either move, you can keep your balance with LT and RT. If you manage to keep your balance, you’ll end your grinding move by simply getting off the surface. For manuals, you can either press B or pull off another trick.

The game features over 100 challenges across three different areas; Los Angeles, Oslo, and Barcelona. Each level is timed and you’re required to pull off tricks displayed on-screen. The idea is to clear the minimal number of tricks required to earn the high score, but if you manage to pull off the target number, the level keeps going until the timer runs out. Once you’re conquered the challenges or need to chill, you can enjoy Endless mode where you just skate without the pressure of scores.

As you complete challenges, in the Challenge or Endless mode, you’ll earn in-game currency called SC which can be used to customize your skateboarder and board. You’ll also be able to buy new clothing items such as shirts, shorts, caps; among other things. You’ll be able to change your character’s skin tone and hair. Additionally, you can upgrade your skills with your hard-earned SC such as speed and balance and also buy new special tricks. SC currency is also required to unlock the other two environments.

The game’s presentation is as minimalistic as its gameplay and premise. It looks great, albeit with a limited color palette. Its simplistic visuals make it very soothing to the eye. On the audio side, the soundtrack is a soothing score with atmospheric lo-fi beats; perfect for a relaxing experience. Although nothing is perfect as navigating through menus and making your way to the game feels sluggish and slow.

Skate City is a fun, easy to pick up and play alternative to the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series. The tricks are easy to pull off thanks to simplistic joystick-based mechanics. The game feels and looks great and this is topped off by a soothing lo-fi score make Skate City a great game to chill to. Great game to play in short bursts or longer gaming sessions. Skate City is a must-play.