Microsoft has abruptly removed Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 from the July Xbox Game Pass lineup, just days before the title was set to launch on the subscription service. The game, a remake of the iconic skateboarding classics, was originally slated for release on Tuesday, July 21, but was quietly dropped on Wednesday, July 15, with minimal explanation.
Removal Confirmed by Xbox Spokesperson
An Xbox spokesperson confirmed to multiple media outlets that the removal stems from a licensing issue. “We’re continuing to work through the necessary licensor approvals for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2. We’ll share an update as soon as we have one,” the spokesperson told Pure Xbox. They added that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 remains available on Game Pass, suggesting the problem is specific to the 1+2 title.
The situation is particularly perplexing because Activision, the publisher of the game, has been owned by Microsoft since the controversial acquisition in 2023. This makes Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 technically a first-party title, yet it still faces hurdles that its sequel does not.
Fan Reactions and Broader Concerns
Fans expressed confusion and frustration on social media, particularly on Reddit. One user wrote, “Why? They own the company…” Another commented, “Since they already announced it, they should have just put it on for a month or two and then removed it. Going back on what was just announced recently is a stupid move.” A third user speculated about the future of Game Pass, stating, “Mark My Words. Game Pass is going to transition to being a place to get discounted or early XBOX games and demos instead of being a Netflix of games.”
The removal of a first-party title raises questions about the reliability of Game Pass announcements and the service's long-term strategy. While Microsoft has not provided a timeline for resolving the licensing issue, the company has pledged to share updates as they become available.
