Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2: Streets - 50 Around The Fountain Guide
Alright, skaters! Getting that pesky '50 Around the Fountain' challenge in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 on the Streets level can be a real head-scratcher. But don't sweat it, because we're about to break down exactly how to grind your way to victory. Let's dive in and turn that frustration into sweet, sweet combo satisfaction.
Understanding the Challenge: 50 Around the Fountain
So, what exactly are we trying to accomplish here? The '50 Around the Fountain' challenge requires you to complete a 50-50 grind around the entire fountain located in the Streets level. Sounds simple, right? Well, the fountain’s got some curves and corners that can throw you off, making it a bit trickier than it initially seems. This challenge isn't just about grinding; it's about maintaining your balance and momentum while navigating the fountain's unique shape. The key here is precision and timing. You'll need to approach the fountain at the right angle, hop onto the edge smoothly, and adjust your balance to avoid bailing mid-grind. Remember, practice makes perfect, and even the pros had to start somewhere. Don't get discouraged if you don't nail it on your first try. Keep practicing, and you'll eventually get the hang of it. Pay attention to the rhythm of the grind and make small adjustments as needed to stay on track. Also, consider experimenting with different skater stats and board setups. Some skaters might have better balance or grind stats, which can give you an edge. Similarly, certain boards might offer better stability or grind performance. By combining the right technique with the right gear, you'll be well on your way to conquering the '50 Around the Fountain' challenge and showing off your skills in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2.
Gearing Up for Success: Skater Stats and Board Choice
Before we even think about approaching the fountain, let's talk gear. Your skater's stats and board choice can make a significant difference. Look for skaters with high balance and grind stats. These will help you stay on the rail longer and recover from those near-miss wobbles. As for the board, experiment a bit. Some boards offer better stability for grinds, which can be a lifesaver on a curved surface like the fountain. Don't underestimate the importance of these initial choices. A skater with poor balance might struggle to maintain the grind, while a board with low stability could cause you to slip off easily. Take the time to explore different skater and board combinations to find what works best for your play style. You might even want to consider upgrading your skater's stats as you progress through the game. Investing in balance and grind skills can significantly improve your chances of completing the challenge. Also, keep an eye out for special boards or decks that offer unique advantages for grinding. These can often be unlocked by completing specific challenges or reaching certain milestones in the game. By optimizing your skater and board setup, you'll be setting yourself up for success and making the '50 Around the Fountain' challenge much more achievable.
Approaching the Fountain: Angle and Speed
The approach is everything. You can't just skate straight at the fountain and expect to stick the grind. You need a slight angle – think about 45 degrees – to allow you to smoothly transition onto the edge. Speed is also crucial; too slow, and you won't make it. Too fast, and you'll overshoot. Find that sweet spot where you have enough momentum to grind without losing control. Visualize the line you want to take around the fountain and adjust your approach accordingly. It's not just about skating towards the fountain; it's about setting yourself up for a smooth and continuous grind. Pay attention to the fountain's shape and plan your route in advance. Identify any potential obstacles or uneven sections that might throw you off. By anticipating these challenges, you can adjust your speed and angle to maintain your balance and momentum. Also, consider practicing your approach without actually grinding. This will allow you to focus on your positioning and timing without the added pressure of staying on the rail. Once you feel comfortable with your approach, you can start incorporating the grind and gradually refine your technique. Remember, consistency is key. The more you practice, the more natural your approach will become, and the easier it will be to nail the '50 Around the Fountain' challenge. Experiment with different angles and speeds until you find the perfect combination that works for you.
Executing the Grind: Balance is Key
Okay, you're approaching the fountain at the perfect angle with the right speed. Now what? As you near the edge, ollie (jump) and press the grind button (usually Triangle on PlayStation, Y on Xbox). Once you're grinding, the real challenge begins: maintaining your balance. Use the D-pad or analog stick to make small adjustments, keeping the balance meter centered. If you see it tilting too far to one side, correct it immediately. Don't overcorrect, though – small, gentle movements are key. Think of it like walking a tightrope. You wouldn't make big, sudden movements; you'd make subtle adjustments to stay balanced. The same principle applies to grinding in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2. Pay close attention to the balance meter and react quickly to any changes. Anticipate the curves and corners of the fountain and adjust your balance accordingly. It's also helpful to develop a sense of rhythm while grinding. This will allow you to predict when you need to make adjustments and maintain a smooth, consistent grind. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you grind, the better you'll become at reading the balance meter and making the necessary adjustments. Don't get discouraged if you fall off a few times. Just keep practicing, and you'll eventually master the art of balance and conquer the '50 Around the Fountain' challenge.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Let's be real, you're gonna mess up a few times. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear:
- Overshooting: Going too fast and launching off the fountain. Solution: Adjust your speed and try approaching at a wider angle.
- Bailing on Corners: Losing balance on the curved sections. Solution: Anticipate the turn and make small, frequent balance adjustments.
- Not Enough Speed: Stalling out before completing the grind. Solution: Make sure you have enough momentum before approaching the fountain.
- Forgetting to Adjust Balance: Ignoring the balance meter and hoping for the best. Solution: Pay attention to the meter and make constant adjustments.
Avoiding these common mistakes is crucial for completing the '50 Around the Fountain' challenge. Overshooting can often be prevented by slowing down your approach and focusing on precision. Bailing on corners can be minimized by anticipating the turns and making small, frequent balance adjustments. Not enough speed can be addressed by building up more momentum before approaching the fountain. And, of course, forgetting to adjust your balance is a recipe for disaster. Always keep an eye on the balance meter and be prepared to make quick corrections as needed. In addition to these tips, it's also helpful to watch videos of other players completing the challenge. This can give you a better sense of the ideal approach, speed, and balance adjustments. Pay attention to the techniques they use and try to incorporate them into your own gameplay. Remember, learning from your mistakes is an essential part of improving your skills. Don't get discouraged if you mess up a few times. Just analyze what went wrong and try to correct it on your next attempt. With practice and perseverance, you'll eventually overcome these common challenges and successfully complete the '50 Around the Fountain' grind.
Advanced Techniques: Adding Style
Once you've mastered the basic grind, why not add some flair? Try incorporating tricks into your grind by pressing different button combinations while you're on the rail. A well-timed kickflip or heelflip can earn you extra points and make your run look even cooler. Just be careful not to lose your balance while attempting these tricks. Start with simple tricks and gradually work your way up to more complex combinations. Experiment with different button presses and see what kind of moves you can pull off. You might even discover some new and exciting tricks that you never knew existed. Also, consider using manuals to link your grinds together. By transitioning seamlessly from a grind to a manual and back again, you can create longer and more impressive combos. This requires precise timing and balance, but it's well worth the effort. Not only will you earn more points, but you'll also impress your friends and fellow skaters with your skills. Remember, style is just as important as substance in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2. So, don't be afraid to get creative and express yourself through your skating. The more you experiment, the more confident you'll become, and the more fun you'll have. So, go out there and show the world what you've got!
Practice Makes Perfect: Repetition is Key
Seriously, don't expect to nail this on your first try. It takes practice and patience. Keep at it, and you'll eventually develop the muscle memory and timing needed to conquer this challenge. Load up the Streets level in free skate mode and just grind around the fountain until you feel comfortable. Experiment with different approaches, speeds, and balance adjustments. The more you practice, the more natural it will become, and the easier it will be to complete the '50 Around the Fountain' challenge. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Every fall is a learning opportunity. Analyze what went wrong and try to correct it on your next attempt. Watch videos of other players completing the challenge and pay attention to their techniques. Try to incorporate their strategies into your own gameplay. And, most importantly, have fun! Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is all about enjoying the thrill of skating and pushing yourself to improve. So, relax, take your time, and enjoy the process of mastering this challenging grind. With enough practice and perseverance, you'll be grinding around the fountain like a pro in no time.
Wrapping Up: Own the Streets!
So there you have it! With the right approach, skater, board, and a whole lot of practice, you'll be grinding '50 Around the Fountain' in no time. Now get out there and shred! Remember, the key to success is to stay focused, stay balanced, and never give up. With enough dedication and perseverance, you can conquer any challenge that Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 throws your way. So, go out there and show the world what you're made of. Prove that you have what it takes to be a true skating legend. And most importantly, have fun! Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 is all about celebrating the joy of skating and the thrill of competition. So, relax, enjoy the ride, and let your skills shine. With the right attitude and a little bit of luck, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. So, get out there and own the streets! Show the world that you're a force to be reckoned with. And remember, the only limit is your own imagination. So, dream big, work hard, and never stop pushing yourself to be the best skater you can be.