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Companies & Studios

Neversoft

Tony Hawk's architects

Neversoft created the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series that defined extreme sports gaming before transitioning to Guitar Hero and eventually merging into Infinity Ward.

PlayStationplaystation-2xboxxbox-360 developeramericanactivision 1994–2014

Overview

From skateboarding to shredding. Neversoft found success with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, creating annual entries that defined extreme sports gaming through the PlayStation era. When skateboarding fatigue set in, they transitioned to Guitar Hero, continuing Activision’s rhythm franchise. The studio eventually merged with Infinity Ward, ending two decades of independent identity.

Fast facts

  • Founded: 1994.
  • Location: Los Angeles, California.
  • Parent: Activision (acquired 1999).
  • Merged: Infinity Ward (2014).

Tony Hawk era

TitleYear
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater1999
THPS22000
THPS32001
THPS42002
Underground series2003-2004

Guitar Hero transition

TitleYear
Guitar Hero III2007
Guitar Hero World Tour2008
Guitar Hero 52009
Warriors of Rock2010

Design strengths

AspectQuality
Control responsivenessTight gameplay
Level designMemorable environments
Soundtrack curationGenre-defining
PolishConsistent quality

Corporate journey

EventYear
Founded1994
Activision acquisition1999
Tony Hawk success1999-2007
Guitar Hero era2007-2010
Infinity Ward merger2014

See also