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Inside Mac Games has posted a hands-on preview of Aspyr's Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4 based on a recent beta of the game. The latest version of this popular skating game includes a host of new skaters, a couple of new tricks, and some redeveloped gameplay.

Here's a clip from the preview:

One of the most drastic changes to THPS4 is the revamped Career Mode. In previous titles, players were force to tackle a level's various challenges while sweating it out under a time limit. This time around, the developers at Neversoft saw fit to trash the timer, meaning that players can now skate around each level to their heart's content. The change is significant in that Career Mode now feels much more relaxed and open, making for a less stressful gaming experience.

Goals are now activated by interacting with various people scattered across each level. The people, which range from photographers to any of the playable skaters, are easily located by the bright arrows hovering over their heads. Once a specific person is spoken to, he or she will describe the task they need completed. If the player accepts the task, a timer will start counting down, and the player must complete the task in the time allotted. To save players from getting too frustrated, tasks can be ended early or restarted at any time by accessing the pause menu.

IMG Preview: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4

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Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4

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