Skateboard Fun without the Injuries

Disclosure

This past summer, Miss M learned to skateboard.  She’s only 7 so I was in awe… it’s something that I NEVER learned how to do.  I enjoyed skiing and ice skating, but put wheels under me and I was a mess.

DH, on the other hand, lists skateboarding among his childhood passions.  So I’m guessing that Miss M acquired his ability to stand on a board without biffing.

So when Tony Hawk Shred for the Wii showed up at our door, I’m not sure who was more excited…

• DH – because it’s the combination of a childhood favorite and technology…
• Miss M – because it’s a video game AND a skateboard rolled into one…
• Me – because it’s a skateboard with no wheels and little potential for typical skateboarding injuries…

DH took the lead and set it up for us which involved connecting a transmitter to the Wii.  He proceeded to test it out, running through the training area without missing a beat.  He did Ollies, flips and manuals like he hadn’t missed a day.  As I sat there and watched, I learned quite a bit.  It explains terminology in addition to how to do the tricks.  I was anxious to see how the kids would do.

When Miss M was ready, DH set up her profile and got ready to run her through the training.  He used the remote to select which activity she would do but the board acts as a remote as well. She was so excited about doing tricks on it that she simulated Ollies and giggled. Unfortunately, that triggered the activity because an Ollie is like pressing select. She ended up missing out on quite a few sets of instructions as a result but she was able to repeat the activity anyhow. But she picked up on it quickly and started to really get the hang of it.

Until, of course, we told her to move along so someone else could play.

While Miss K usually leans toward things like Barbie and Polly Pockets, she decided she wanted to give skateboarding a shot. Seeing as she couldn’t fall off and get hurt, I was totally for it. Despite her small size, she picked up on the concept well and managed to work the tricks. She has great balance so that played a huge part in her success. I was surprised to see her take such an interest in the game, actually.

Me, on the other hand… well, I have horrible balance these days – evidenced by the video! But for future reference, this game isn’t meant to be played with slip-on shoes. You need footwear that helps you stay in place! Regardless, I enjoyed the game and picked up on a few of the tricks myself. I think it would be something for all ages to play… not just a teenager or skateboarder in your family!

What we liked: Great for the entire family. Helps work your balance whether you want to or not! Easy to learn and has great music.

What we didn’t like:  Once you commit to an activity, you can’t go back.  At least we couldn’t figure out how. I also didn’t like that there wasn’t an “Off” button.  It has an auto-off but when you know you are done, it would be nice to be able to just shut it down.  I tried but wasn’t able to get it to do that.

Think your family has what it takes to put Tony Hawk: Shred to work on your Wii? Well, folks, one lucky SAHM Reviews reader will get just that.  I’ve been provided with an extra board to give away!

Yes, seriously.

So here’s the deal…

The Prize: Activision‘s Tony Hawk: Shred for the Wii

Participants –

…must provide a US shipping address
…must provide an email in the first comment, email me directly with an email address or have email accessible from their profile.

Sometime on December 15, 2010, a winner will be chosen at random from all valid comments left. Winner has 72 hours from posting/notification to respond. If winner cannot be contacted, I will move on to the next random selection.

How to enter:   <GIVEAWAY CLOSED>

Tony Hawk: Shred is rated “E” for Everyone and is available for the Wii, the XBox360 and the PS3.