Skate Story: Shredding Through the Surreal
A demon on a skateboard, chasing moons and dreams
Launch Day Larry
Skate Story is not your typical skateboarding game. It’s a mesmerizing blend of art, philosophy, and skateboarding mechanics that will have you pondering the meaning of life while nailing that perfect kickflip. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a glass demon on a quest to eat the moon, well, wonder no more.
Gameplay: A Flow State of Button Mashing and Existential Crises
Skate Story’s gameplay is a delightful paradox. It’s both relaxing and challenging, offering a unique escape for those looking to unwind while simultaneously testing their reflexes. The controls are tight and responsive, though I wouldn’t recommend using the Hyperkin’s 20th anniversary Xbox Duke controller unless you enjoy a shoulder workout. The game emphasizes quick reactions to obstacles, creating a flow state that feels akin to Rocket League’s trick system.
Customization options, like deck designs, add a nostalgic touch, while the surreal “ender mechanic” injects excitement into the skateboarding genre. The game is a love letter to street skating, with a trick system that’s both intuitive and satisfying. However, the limited trick variety due to the control setup might leave some players yearning for more.
Despite minor bugs and performance issues on the Steam Deck, the gameplay experience remains engaging and artistic. The tutorial is well-designed, spoon-feeding players just enough to get them rolling without overwhelming them. Plus, the soundtrack is phenomenal, enhancing the immersive experience and making every ollie feel like a dance move.
Graphics: A Visual Symphony of Insanity
The graphics in Skate Story are nothing short of breathtaking. Described as “insane” and “fantastic,” the visuals are a key component of the game’s artistic vision. The aesthetic is both cool and visually appealing, managing to impress without overwhelming the player. It’s like Psychonauts met a skate park and decided to have a visually stunning baby.
However, even the most beautiful symphonies have their off notes. Optimization issues on high-end PCs cause frame skipping and stuttering, which can be as jarring as a skateboard hitting a pebble. Closing background applications like Discord might help, but it’s a workaround that shouldn’t be necessary. On the Steam Deck, frame drops in open areas are noted, though the game generally maintains a smooth 60fps.
Despite these hiccups, the graphics remain a standout feature, elevating the game to an artistic expression and making it a visually captivating experience.
Story: A Metaphorical Journey of Glass and Moons
Skate Story’s narrative is as unique as its gameplay. The game features a demon protagonist made of glass, symbolizing fragility and vulnerability, embarking on a quest to pursue moons. This surreal premise is enriched by a strong artistic vision, where metaphors transform abstract concepts into tangible experiences.
The storytelling is described as “weird, but not bad,” with impactful moments that resonate with human emotions. Themes of purpose, fragility, and freedom are well-explored, creating a strong emotional connection with players. However, the lack of voice acting for the main character and NPCs is a missed opportunity that could have added depth to the story.
Despite this, the narrative’s dream-like quality and deep philosophical undertones invite players to reflect on its meaning, evoking a sense of calm and peace. It’s a story that captures the essence of skateboarding’s speed, feeling, and freedom, making it a standout title in the gaming world.
Final Verdict
Skate Story is a unique and inspired experience that blends innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and a compelling narrative. While it has its quirks and technical issues, the game’s charm and artistic vision shine through, offering players a surreal journey that’s both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re a fan of skateboarding or just looking for something different, Skate Story is worth a spin.
Score: 8.6/10