Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 for Game Boy Advance brings back the iconic skateboarding experience to a handheld platform, offering both exhilaration and disappointment. While it attempts to capture the essence of the console versions, the limitations of the Game Boy Advance hardware become evident, resulting in a mediocre gameplay experience.
One of the standout features of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 for Game Boy Advance is its multiplayer mode, which allows players to compete with up to four friends over a LAN or the Internet. This adds a layer of excitement and competitiveness to the game, reminiscent of the days when multiplayer gaming was a novel concept. The Trick Attack and Graffiti modes offer different ways to showcase your skateboarding skills against your friends, creating thrilling moments and heated rivalries.
However, despite the potential for multiplayer fun, the overall gameplay experience falls short. The graphics, while understandable given the limitations of the handheld console, lack the smoothness and detail found in the console versions. The controls also suffer from being cramped on the Game Boy Advance's small layout, making it difficult to perform complex tricks with precision. These issues hinder the game's replayability and can, at times, lead to frustration.
One aspect that evokes nostalgia is the soundtrack, featuring a collection of energetic punk and alternative rock tunes. This soundtrack harkens back to the golden era of skateboarding games and enhances the overall experience. The inclusion of familiar tracks adds a sense of familiarity and authenticity to the game, transporting players back to a time when they were first introduced to the world of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater.
In terms of content, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 for Game Boy Advance offers a decent variety of levels and challenges. From massive skate parks to iconic city locations, players will find themselves exploring different environments and uncovering hidden areas. These levels, while not as expansive or detailed as their console counterparts, still manage to capture the essence of the series, providing players with a sense of progression and accomplishment as they complete objectives and unlock new content.
Overall, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 for Game Boy Advance attempts to deliver the skateboarding excitement of its console counterparts but falls short due to hardware limitations. Despite its flaws, the game offers moments of nostalgia and multiplayer fun, making it worth a try for die-hard fans of the series or those seeking a retro handheld gaming experience. However, casual players or those looking for a more polished and immersive skateboarding experience may find themselves disappointed.