Tony Hawk's Proving Ground review

The new dynamic camera angle isn't intrusive, and adds energy to your trick lines, although you can select the classic stationary follow cam if you want. Sixaxis support for balance and steering is pointless, since it's just not as reliable as twitching your thumb on the analogue stick. Video editing is well-fleshed and wieldy, but clips can't be shared - the score/grade you're given for them can be uploaded to a leaderboard, though. And there's plenty of online play to be had, offering myriad modes supported across the whole game world (including your custom-built Skate Lounge crib).

Visually, it's more down-to-earth than it's ever been, and character detail for the series hits a new high. The huge world itself, despite its many secret nooks, quirky touches, hidden rooftop bowls and other neat details, is lacking in colour, with authenticity for its Philly, Baltimore and Washington DC skate spots replacing the cartoony character of previous games. And there's some shabbiness that crops up here and there. For example, during one mission you have to knock a bunch of security guards down, in close succession; barge one, and the camera cuts away to show them barreling through the air, while your off-screen character continues to move, possibly leaving you in an awkward position that's just not your fault.