Call of Duty Map Reveals Next Tony Hawk Game
Activision has cleverly used Call of Duty: Black Ops 6‘s massive player base to announce its next major release. A poster discovered in the new “Grind” map clearly displays the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater logo alongside March 4, 2025.
This strategic placement makes perfect sense. Call of Duty reaches millions of daily players, while the skatepark-themed map provides natural integration for the reveal. This cross-promotion demonstrates their new unified marketing approach since Microsoft now owns both franchises through its Activision acquisition.
Tony Hawk responded to the discovery on social media with eyeball emojis, while Xbox’s official account mirrored this cryptic response. Additionally, professional skater Tyshawn Jones has already confirmed his involvement in what appears to be Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4.
The Strategic Crossover
Microsoft’s first significant cross-promotional effort since acquiring Activision showcases perfect corporate synergy. The skatepark-themed Grind map provides an ideal setting for this teaser, featuring a poster with the iconic Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater logo and the date March 4, 20252.
Inside the map’s carefully designed skate shop, players discovered what appears to be Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, codenamed “Project Chicago.” Professional skater Tyshawn Jones has already confirmed his involvement in this new remaster, having previously appeared in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2.
The Musical Legacy
The Tony Hawk franchise has revolutionized gaming soundtracks through several iconic releases:
THPS 1’s Groundbreaking Soundtrack
– Dead Kennedys’ “Police Truck” introduced punk to mainstream gaming.
– Goldfinger’s “Superman” became the series’ unofficial anthem.
– The Suicide Machines and Primus brought alternative sounds to gaming.
THPS 2’s Evolution
– Rage Against the Machine’s “Guerrilla Radio” expanded the musical horizons.
– The collaboration between Anthrax and Public Enemy showcased cross-genre potential.
– Papa Roach brought nu-metal into gaming’s consciousness.
THPS 3’s Musical Innovation
– Motorhead’s “Ace of Spades” demonstrated the series’ rock credentials.
– The Ramones’ “Blitzkrieg Bop” connected skateboarding to punk history.
– Red Hot Chili Peppers brought alternative funk into the mix.
Microsoft’s New Vision
Under Microsoft’s ownership, the franchise appears set for significant changes:
– Day-one Game Pass availability ensuring maximum reach.
– Cross-platform play across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
– Potential for regular soundtrack updates and new musical features.
Cultural Impact
The Tony Hawk series has shipped over 31.1 million units worldwide, with its soundtracks playing a crucial role in this success. The games have:
– Introduced millions of players to alternative music.
– Helped launch numerous bands’ careers.
– Created a blueprint for curating gaming soundtracks.
What’s Coming
The March 4 reveal promises to showcase:
– A modernized soundtrack featuring a mix of classic and contemporary artists.
– Enhanced audio features that leverage current-gen hardware.
– Potential integration with modern streaming services.
Iron Galaxy Studios, known for their work on the PC version of THPS 1+2, is handling development. Their involvement suggests a focus on technical excellence while preserving the series’ musical heritage.
The Countdown Begins
With just over a week until the March 4 announcement, speculation runs high about how Microsoft will honor the franchise’s musical legacy while pushing it forward. The official website has been updated with a countdown timer, and removed code references to “thps-3-4-countdown” suggest this reveal will be significant. As March 4 approaches, the gaming community has mixed feelings how this beloved franchise will evolve under Microsoft’s stewardship. The title of ‘influential musical tastemaker.’ among gaming fans is well deserved. What remains to be seen is will it continue. Our hope is it will and be better than ever.
