Something so simple adds so much

The Sixaxis was a good little gimmick on the original controller but the addition of the vibration feature in the DualShock 3 is a much needed one.

You may think,"oh, the only difference is that the controller vibrates" which is true but it makes such a difference - the vibration is improved on the PS2's and feels a little more subtle in my opinion. Every bump and crash in a racing game can be felt, on shooting games it feels like you really are shooting etc.

I thought when using the Sixaxis controller that I wouldn't miss the vibration and most of the time I didn't but buy this product and you won't look back and you will be thinking,"why didn't I buy one earlier?"

Something so simple really does add so much and the only other comparison with the Sixaxis is that the DualShock 3 is slightly heavier and the battery doesn't last as long. However, I believe the added weight is a positive and rids the 'cheap' feel of the Sixaxis. Regarding the battery, it will still last you between 3 - 5 hours.

Overall, a great product and a must-have for all PlayStation 3 owners - get one now - don't wait for the UK release.

Great Product

A recommended product.

These cases fit the games brilliantly unlike some of the games cases I have tried.

Remains the best skating franchise around

The Tony Hawk's series has been accused of running out of steam. While the third version was excellent, it offered little that the second title didn't. Neversoft has obviously sought to change things with this version, but despite this, the game is very similar to the last one. One change (albeit purely cosmetic) is that there's something very English about THPS4. From the inclusion of a London level to the presence of The Sex Pistols on the soundtrack, THPS4 has obviously been, at least in part, tailored for us Brits.

In terms of presentation it remains almost identical to the previous three iterations. Fourteen pro skaters are included (Jackass star Bam Margera is once again involved) as well as the now-mandatory create-a-skater facility. Nine levels are included in all (seven regular plus two secret ones) which vary from a shipyard to a zoo. The selection of one and two player modes remains the same as THPS3, however, THPS4 includes the option for online play for up to eight players. Interestingly, the graphics are still a little below what may be expected from a PS2 game, but nonetheless they remain capable. The soundtrack, however, is simply awesome. The Sex Pistols, Aesop Rock, NWA, Iron Maiden and Run DMC all make an appearance giving the game unquestionably the best soundtrack ever.

The only major difference is the removal of time limits on each level. The levels are much, much larger now, and the player is given the freedom to skate around to their heart's content. Now, the player has to approach any citizens standing around to begin a quest. There are now sixteen challenges on each level, which is somewhat higher than the amount found on the previous game. This may involve the by now standard collection of 'S,K,A,T,E' or something more novel like helping a prisoner tunnel out of Alcatraz. There is a definite emphasis on fun in this game, as many of the games available have no bearing on the player's progress (playing tennis or betting on two prostitutes having a fight).

Other additions include the ability to 'skitch', that is to hold on to the back of a moving vehicle (or elephant) to earn extra points. New pogoing tricks are available to the more advanced gamer as well. Finally, the player can now transfer over the spines of pipes to rack up even longer combinations. Each of these functions has been included to help the player produce longer combinations and therefore gain larger scores. The new mission structure enables these new skills to be introduced gradually, but THSP experts should have no problem picking up the new abilities.

For me, the removal of the time limit makes this iteration of THPS a slightly poor relation to the third version. The appeal of the Tony Hawk's series for me has always been attempting to rack up 500,000 point plus combos. THPS4's reliance on comedy somewhat removes the emphasis from gaining huge scores. While not the best, it is undoubtedly the most varied version of the franchise, and fans of the series should consider this an essential purchase.

fantastic piece of kit

This is a brilliant accessory to have for your gamecube - especially if you have a portable screen.

The only downside is the time it takes to charge but in terms of convenience, it is great and I have found it to be useful on many occasions.

I had some friends over to play Smash Bros and Soul Calibur - and there was no free plug near the tv. I had the battery pack charged from before and used that and started playing. We had wavebirds plugged in as well and managed to get just over 2 hours - I wasn't expecting more than about an hour so I was pleasantly surprised.

If finding a plug is a hassle or you just want a short gaming session (at night for example) or want to take your gamecube round to your mates - this is great.

Highly recommended - fits snugly underneath your gamecube and easy to use.