Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam

 DS
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 34
  3. Negative: 1 out of 34
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  1. Game Chronicles
    96
    Downhill Jam might not make the most of the dual screens or the touch screen functionality, but I can’t imagine a better system to enjoy this type of game on. The sheer level of customization, stat tracking, and online potential will keep you skating throughout the holidays and well into next year.
  2. PGNx Media
    93
    Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam manages to breathe new life into the franchise by focusing on downhill skating while still incorporating many of the tricks and technical skills found in the previous games.
  3. GameBrink
    89
    This is an A+ racer with new twists that will keep hardcore racers as well as Tony Hawk fans entertained for many hours both online and offline.
  5. N-Insanity
    88
    With virtually every facet of DJ featuring a sizeable amount of quality gameplay, it is no understatement to say that Activision’s latest offering is an undeniable success.
  6. IGN
    87
    The racing game is excellent even with its slight restrictions -- the designers have explored the core idea to give it a fantastic amount of variety.
  7. Cheat Code Central
    86
    If you like the single-player mode, you’re going to love the multi-player component.
  8. GameZone
    85
    A refreshingly different take on the series, with high-speed action and excellent online features.
  9. ZTGD
    85
    While not as deep or engaging as the other titles in this franchise, Downhill Jam finally takes the series in a new direction. I can really see this becoming a nice offset from the traditional game and even enjoying some real success. Vicarious Visions has done an amazing job considering the limitations of the Nintendo DS.
  10. Digital Entertainment News
    85
    Easily the best TH on a portable Nintendo system. Well worth your time if you're a fan of the series. It may not be the best introduction to the series, but it's a great game nonetheless.
  11. Official Nintendo Magazine UK
    83
    It's great for Hawk's newbies but its stripped down nature won't please veterans who'll want more open worlds to explore. [Christmas 2006, p.86]
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  12. Gamers' Temple
    81
    A decent racer but it doesn’t feel like as much of a skateboard game as do previous Tony Hawk games.
  13. GameSpy
    80
    A decent title with quite a bit to offer and awesome multiplayer. It'll just have to be satisfied being labeled one of the weaker Tony Hawk games on the market.
  14. GamesRadar+
    80
    We'd rather play this than the past two or three Tony games on PS2 and Xbox - Downhill Jam makes Tony Hawk seem fresh and exciting again.
  15. Gaming Nexus
    80
    Fans of previous Tony Hawk or skateboarding titles who like combos and big air are going to love this game. It might not be the most realistic game (300 foot long big air traveling through downtown Hong Kong?), but it is certainly a lot of fun.
  16. Gamestyle
    80
    It's different, but it's definitely a Tony Hawk game. And a really good one at that.
  17. Worth Playing
    78
    A great game for skaters on the go, or fans of tricky, point-based play.
  18. GamerNode
    77
    Despite a few clipping issues and the cramped control style, I found Downhill Jam to be surprisingly good all-around.
  19. GamingTrend
    76
    The number of different challenges actually detracts from the gameplay instead of enhancing it. THDJ isn’t a bad game, but if you are expecting something similar to the other Tony Hawk games you might find yourself disappointed.
  20. NintendoWorldReport
    75
    There is a moderately fun, addictive quality to the single-player game as you churn through the objectives and gain familiarity with the expansive levels. The online features hold immense potential but so far seem crippled by sheer lack of participation.
  21. DailyGame
    75
    A few quirks and maybe a bit too fast at times, but overall, an enjoyable game.
  22. Nintendo Power
    75
    If you've haven't played a Tony Hawk game in a while, this is a decent edition to snatch up. [Jan. 2007, p.110]
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  23. Nintendojo
    75
    Fans may be turned off by the emphasis on speed and racing, but those willing to let go of their ideals will find an enjoyable experience.

Awards & Rankings

15
#15 Best DS Game of 2006
65
#65 Most Discussed DS Game of 2006
35
#35 Most Shared DS Game of 2006

User Reviews

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User Score
6.6

Mixed or average reviews- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 10
  3. Negative: 2 out of 10
  1. JosephF.
    Jan 17, 2007
    8
    A lengthy single-player mode with greater difficulties and an online mode that will keep you coming back for more, definitely worth the purchase.
  2. TimS.
    Oct 26, 2006
    8
    Down Hill Jam . Really was looking forward to it , now that I have played it I am pleased. it reminds me of tony hawk meets ssx tricky . big Down Hill Jam . Really was looking forward to it , now that I have played it I am pleased. it reminds me of tony hawk meets ssx tricky . big air. snowboardish tony hawk levels . a real sense of speed . its like tony hawk turbo . start a grind. and hit turbo . do a manual and turbo . ride flat and turbo . better get good at using turbo . because the game expects that will be. -- and i must add . you can fully customize your characters with bitmap editors. your upper body and lowerbody are seperate bitmaps and your board .The game also lets you record a custom sound with the mic . and it can be used for different purposes in the game. that feature was very fun for me record myself saying a swear word and having it play when I wipe out . Good purchase . Amen… Full Review »
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