SkateBIRD, a charming and lighthearted skateboarding game developed by Glass Bottom Games, offers a whimsical take on the genre, drawing inspiration from classic titles like the Tony Hawk Pro Skater series.

As a bird on a skateboard, the game presents a unique concept that promises a delightful and comical experience. While the game successfully captures the joy of skateboarding as an avian protagonist and provides opportunities for customization, the subpar controls, and frustrating quests hinder its overall enjoyment.

Despite its initial appeal, SkateBIRD left me longing for the precision and fluidity found in the games that have mastered the genre. A Comical Twist on Skateboarding: SkateBIRD immediately stands out with its endearing concept of a bird decked out in adorable outfits, performing tricks and grinds on miniature skateboards. The game’s whimsical visuals and quirky soundtrack create a charming atmosphere that’s sure to put a smile on your face. The customization options available for your avian skater allow for a personal touch, adding an element of creativity to your feathered friend’s appearance.

SkateBIRD draws inspiration from the beloved Tony Hawk Pro Skater series, paying homage to the skateboarding games that defined the genre. The familiar gameplay mechanics, such as performing tricks, stringing together combos, and exploring various skate parks, will resonate with fans of the classic titles. It’s evident that SkateBIRD aims to capture the essence of the Tony Hawk games, albeit with a playful avian twist.

One of the game’s significant drawbacks is its control scheme, which hampers the overall experience. Maneuvering the bird on the skateboard feels imprecise and clunky, often resulting in frustrating falls and failed tricks. The lack of responsiveness and difficulty in executing specific moves can lead to significant frustration, detracting from the enjoyment of the game.

Furthermore, the quests within SkateBIRD can be more exasperating than rewarding. Some tasks require a level of precision and timing that the controls struggle to deliver, leading to repeated failures and an overwhelming sense of frustration. While the comical premise and quirky dialogue attempt to alleviate the frustration, it ultimately falls short due to the flawed control mechanics.

Although SkateBIRD initially promises a fun and light-hearted experience, its flaws become increasingly apparent with extended playtime. While the game offers a charming diversion for an hour or two, the subpar controls and frustrating gameplay hinder its long-term appeal. The lack of depth in objectives and the repetitive nature of quests further contribute to the feeling of monotony and limited replay value.

Ultimately, SkateBIRD falls short in comparison to the skateboarding games that have mastered the genre. The subpar controls and frustrating quests make it difficult to recommend the game for prolonged play. While the game’s comical charm and customization options may entertain for a short while, enthusiasts of skateboarding games will likely find a more satisfying experience by revisiting timeless classics like the Tony Hawk Pro Skater series.

SkateBIRD sets out to offer a lighthearted and whimsical skateboarding experience with its avian protagonists and quirky customization options. While it successfully captures the comical side of skateboarding, its flawed controls, and frustrating quests hinder its potential for long-lasting enjoyment. As an enthusiast of the genre, I found that the game’s charm waned after a short time, leaving me longing for the precision and fluidity found in established skateboarding games. While SkateBIRD may provide a brief diversion, it’s difficult to recommend it

*This Review Code was so generously provided by the publisher for review*

Developer: Glass Bottom Games, Plastic Fern Studios  
Release date: September 16, 2021
Platforms:  Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Platform Reviewed on: PlayStation 5

SkateBIRD

19.99

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