When you think about skateboarding games, music probably comes to mind first. For me, it’s the beats that really stand out. I remember jamming to The Vandals’ “Euro-Barge” while playing Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 or trying to mimic the high-pitched vocals of 3 Inches of Blood in “Deadly Sinners” from Tony Hawk’s Underground 2. And who can forget hearing Jack White in “Girl, You Have No Faith in Medicine” while skating in Skate? Music is such a key element of these games.
The recent remasters, THPS 1+2 and 3+4, nailed it with a mix of classic tracks and fresh tunes. They honor skate culture by celebrating its history while also bringing in modern sounds. EA’s upcoming Skate reboot seems to get it too, promising a whopping “over 100 songs” in the soundtrack.
This new game aims to feature both famous names and emerging artists. You’re looking at talents like Denzel Curry and Turnstile alongside legends like MF Doom and Earth, Wind & Fire. As stated in a press release, “[Skate will have] over 100 songs, with hits from emerging artists and deep cuts to help players discover new music as they skate through San Vansterdam.” The soundtrack will continue to evolve, offering fresh tunes with each season.
Music licensing can be a real hassle for game developers. Sometimes, entire games vanish from digital stores due to these issues. By refreshing the soundtrack every season, EA can maintain control over the music, swapping out tracks if licenses expire. This approach mirrors real skate culture. Back in my youth, I discovered so much music just by hanging out at skate parks, listening to whatever the other skaters were playing on their portable speakers.
So far, artists like Little Simz and Skeggs are confirmed for the soundtrack, but there’s still room for 94 more. There’s potential for some exciting inclusions. Just a request, EA: please skip Lupe Fiasco’s “Kick, Push.” It’s a classic but has been overplayed. Instead, how about something like Brave Baby’s “Plastic Skateboard”? It’s perfect for those late-night skate sessions with friends.
In the world of gaming and music, change is constant, and it’s always exciting to see how new talents are recognized. As skate culture continues to evolve, it’s refreshing to see developers embrace both its roots and its future.
For more insights into the evolving relationship between music and gaming, check out this study by the Entertainment Software Association.
