Skate or Die

Skate or Die, released in 1988 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), is one of the earliest and most iconic skateboarding games ever. Originally developed by Electronic Arts for home computers such as the C64, the game was adapted for the NES by Ultra Games (a Konami label) - and brought real skate punk flair in 8-bit form to Nintendo's console for the first time.

At the heart of Skate or Die is a series of five skateboarding disciplines in which you either compete alone against the clock or against other riders. The game can be played either in single-player or two-player mode, alternating between the two. The disciplines include:

• Freestyle halfpipe: Perform tricks such as airs, spins and grabs in the halfpipe.

• High Jump: Jump as high as possible with a running start on the ramp.

• Downhill Race: Race through alleys full of obstacles - reaction is everything.

• Downhill Jam: Compete against an opponent in a chaotic race through the streets.

• Joust: Duel on the halfpipe with pool noodles - an absurd but fun idea.

In Skate or Die, you move between competitions through a skate store menu hosted by the mohawk-wearing, weird guy Rodney - a true cult character of the 80s gaming scene.

In terms of gameplay, Skate or Die is more of a collection of small mini-games with individual levels of difficulty. The controls require a little practice, especially with the half-pipe tricks, but after a short period of familiarization they offer a motivating learning process. The graphics are decent by NES standards, with cool animations and clearly recognizable characters. The rocking chiptune soundtrack gives the whole thing the necessary skate feeling.

Skate or Die is a nostalgic journey back in time to the early days of skateboarding games. It offers varied competitions, an iconic style and a touch of 80s rebellion on the NES. Although it is quite simple in terms of gameplay and can be a bit choppy at times, it is precisely this charm that makes it unforgettable for retro fans and skater kids from back then.