Thursday 6 March, 2008

GAMEPLAY -
Since I was already interested in skateboarding going into the game, it was a blast to play. The option to select your skateboarder, skateboard, and wheels made it even more interesting to play. Each skateboarder also has a unique set of tricks that are worth more points than regular tricks and are only available to that particular skater. By completing the objectives of the selected level allows the player to unlock further levels and additional challenges.
The objectives in every level challenge the player and reward them for completing certain tasks. For example, by collecting the secret tape in each level, you unlock clips from actual skate videos. Only after completing all the challenges of the level is the player able to progress onto the next level.

DESIGN -
I think the ability for designers to effectively program 3D environments led to the creation of all kinds of simulation type games such as THPS. It was great to be able to skate and do tricks you could never usually do in real life. The game manages to keep the player interested through the aesthetics of the level design and the constant challenge of trying to progress to the next level.
The game also has a fun 2 player mode where you can skate against a friend in a series of different challenges. This fosters competition and social interaction between 2 players and is fun to watch by a third party.
Over all I though it was a great game and lots of fun to play.

This is a pretty mediocre gamelog. It repeats itself a lot, and hte design section doesn't offer any insight.

- Ian, your TA this week