‘Tony Hawk’ demo a must-ride

October 12, 2009 by Bryant Nguyen 

Live game demo available for play at Quicksilver in Las Vegas

Quiksilver at the Miracle Mile Shops will be rolling out an exclusive “Tony Hawk: Ride” demo event from now until the game’s official release on Nov. 17.

Tucked away in the back corner of the store, it is where gamers will be able to find the only spot in Las Vegas allowing a first-look at the virtual skate board game.

“I have Tony Hawk’s previous games, but it’s nothing like actually doing it and trying to get on the board,” said Gavin Rivera, a demo participant. “I really liked the fact that they let us demo it.”

The game does not require a standard controller and will utilize a life-size skateboard controller, fully equipped with motion sensing technology, to track every move made.

“It’s very realistic as far as switching the board around and standing on the board,” Rivera said. “That is kind of cool because it shows you the same movement. Let’s say I was to bust out a 50-50 on a rail and I shift the board to the side. It will do the same.”

The skateboard controller adds a new dimension to the game that trumps a standard controller, but don’t worry if it seems harder.

“As far as balance, it feels the same. It kind of seems catered to doing everything simpler,” said Rivera said.

Rivera skateboards in his free time and thought the game was adequate in simulating the real experience but can’t say the same for other skateboarders he met at the demo.

“The real young ones liked it a lot because it felt real to them. The real, hardcore skaters didn’t really like it,” Rivera said.

There are skeptics who echo the fact that the game is geared more toward a younger audience.

“It’s just a gimmick for kids like every other Wii game,” said Ryan Mai, another demo participant.

Those looking to form their own opinion on the game and grind it out in their own virtual skate session can head down to the store every Friday, 2 – 7 p.m., Saturday, 1 – 7 p.m., Sunday, 2 – 7 p.m. and Monday 1 – 7 p.m.

“Tony Hawk: Ride” is the next installment in the Tony Hawk video game series and will be released on the Wii, Xbox 360 and PS3. The game is listed at a retail price of $119.99 which includes the life-size skateboard controller and is Rated E, for animated blood.

Sadly, there’s still no word on whether virtual bandages will be included with the game.