Tony Hawk's Proving Ground (Playstation 3, 2007)

Tony Hawk has always been a staple in my holiday gaming, but with each passing year, I find myself dedicating less time to the series’ new release. The gameplay has always been solid, but the level designs, career path, and overall vibe of the game have been very hit or miss. Proving Ground nails nearly everything it attempts, making it the most enjoyable Hawk in years, and a game that I will play religiously for months on end. The levels are filled with amazing lines, and the career goals actually require a great deal of skill to complete. By now you’d think the series was tapped for new skating moves, but the Aggro Kick, a way to gain more speed, is already a part of my routine for building huge lines. The silky smooth framerate and gorgeous animations are also welcome additions. The rigger challenges, carving goals, and abysmal story deserve to be kicked to the curb, but if you enjoy playing Tony Hawk with the intent of furthering your skills and raising point totals, this is the place to hang your board and wheels