The reasons people pick up a skateboard vary, but a brother, a neighbor, or Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater (THPS) are frequent catalysts. Launched in 1999, THPS introduced skateboarding to a massive audience, impacting the culture in unexpected ways. Over two decades later, its ripple effect is still being analyzed, inspiring author Cole Nowicki to write “Right, Down, + Circle,” a book exploring the history and influence of this iconic game.
A collage image with Tony Hawk's Pro Skater branding and screenshots from the game, highlighting the game's iconic status and influence on skateboarding culture.
Right, Down, + Circle delves into the details of skateboarding’s most famous game, covering everything from mysterious character portraits to the legendary 900 trick. In an interview, Nowicki shares insights into the game’s history, its impact on skateboarding culture, and what makes it so enduring.
The Genesis of a Skateboarding Book
What sparked the idea to write a book about Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater?
Nowicki explains that the book stemmed from an essay about Tony Hawk’s lasting legacy and marketing prowess. He wanted to understand the video game, a key element of Hawk’s success, from a broad perspective. The book explores the game’s history, its interpretation of skateboarding culture, its immense success, and its subsequent influence on skateboarding itself.
Addressing the Absence of Personal Interviews
When asked about not including interviews with the game’s creators, Nowicki clarifies that their voices are present throughout the book, even without direct conversations. He encourages readers to explore the book and discover new perspectives on the game’s impact.
The Meaning Behind the Title
The book’s title, “Right, Down, + Circle,” refers to the control combination for the 900 trick in the original PlayStation version. Nowicki admits the title is not immediately intuitive but appreciates the element of mystery it adds.
Ranking the THPS Series and Cultural Impact
Which THPS game stands out as the best?
Nowicki favors the first five games, particularly Tony Hawk’s Underground, citing its narrative depth.
Why did THPS succeed where other skateboarding games fell short?
Nowicki believes the timing was crucial. By 1999, skateboarding had a stronger cultural presence. Tony Hawk landing the 900 just before the game’s release further elevated its profile. The game’s fun factor also played a significant role.
A screenshot from Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, showcasing gameplay elements, a character performing a trick, and the game's visual style.
The THPS Advantage: Cultural Relevance
He suggests that THPS was the first action sports game of its kind to break through, setting it apart from other ambassador-fronted games that followed. Skateboarding’s cultural appeal also contributed to its success.
Capturing Skateboarding’s Essence and Tony Hawk’s Role
Did THPS accurately represent skateboarding culture?
Nowicki acknowledges the challenges of translating skateboarding to other mediums. While THPS offers an arcade-style representation, it still familiarized many with skateboarding terminology.
Was Tony Hawk the ideal ambassador for skateboarding at the time?
Nowicki considers Tony Hawk to be the “right person for the job” because of his public persona and experience. He also notes the mass appeal of Hawk: “He is just so ubiquitous in the culture, like he broke through into pop culture. He’s in commercials for the NBA Finals and stuff like that. You’re not going to see anyone else do that.”
A screenshot from Tony Hawk's Pro Skater showcasing various skateboarding tricks, characters, and in-game environments.
Who could headline a skateboarding game today?
He identifies Rayssa Leal as a potential star but questions if she has the same crossover appeal as Tony Hawk.
Evolving Representation and Game Development
Who would be in a new THPS game today?
Nowicki suggests a diverse cast, including Mami Tezuka, Kyle Wilson, and Rayssa Leal.
Were there any skaters who should have been in the original game?
Nowicki notes that the original roster primarily consisted of straight white men, reflecting the demographics of skateboarding at the time. He acknowledges the game’s evolution in recent releases, with increased representation of women, transgender individuals, and people of color.
Were there any other video games with a similar cultural impact?
While he couldn’t think of a direct comparison, he jokingly wonders if Mario Kart boosted the go-kart industry.
How was THPS created?
Nowicki explains that the Neversoft team repurposed a failed game called Apocalypse to create THPS. The original pitch to Tony Hawk involved Bruce Willis skateboarding in a post-apocalyptic setting.
A screenshot from Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, emphasizing the game's trick system, visual style, and player customization options.
Legacy, Cheat Codes, and Player Connection
Will the Skate games have the same cultural impact as THPS?
Nowicki believes so, particularly for younger generations. He notes that Skate gained popularity as THPS5 declined, and its continued relevance is evident through online communities.
Any interesting cheat codes or Easter eggs?
Nowicki mentions a hidden feature in the N64 version, where entering specific codes revealed photos of women, leading to various conspiracy theories.
The connection between players and characters
Nowicki acknowledges the connection is surface-level, but expresses hope that players research the skaters they play as in the game. He suggests that the video game can serve as an entry point, introducing people to skateboarders and skateboarding at large.
A close-up image from Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, possibly a character selection screen or a promotional image featuring the iconic skater Tony Hawk.
A Lasting Legacy
How will Tony Hawk be remembered in 100 years?
Nowicki envisions a future where someone discovers an old PlayStation with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, hoping they remember Hawk’s impact on skateboarding culture.
Has Nowicki spent 10,000 hours playing THPS?
While admitting he hasn’t reached the 10,000-hour mark, Nowicki emphasizes the game’s profound impact on him, inspiring him to research and write about its effect on himself and others.
What does his book offer that can’t be found in YouTube videos?
Nowicki jokingly replies, “My credit card information, which I’ve hidden throughout the book.”
