Rayssa Leal shines in new Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 set for July release

É A FADINHA! 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷

A medalhista olímpica brasileira Rayssa Leal estará em Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4! pic.twitter.com/O6CtTbWBlm

— Xbox Originals (@XBOriginals) March 4, 2025

Rayssa Leal’s journey in skateboarding and her gaming debut

At just 17, Rayssa Leal has already become a global icon in street skateboarding, amassing achievements that rank her among the sport’s elite. Her international breakthrough came in 2019 when she went viral performing complex tricks dressed as a fairy, earning her the nickname “Fadinha” (Little Fairy). Since then, her career has skyrocketed: in 2021, at only 13, she clinched silver at the Tokyo Olympics, becoming Brazil’s youngest-ever Olympic medalist. Three years later, in Paris 2024, she secured bronze, further cementing her status as a leading figure in the sport.

Beyond competitions, Rayssa has expanded her influence into other realms, including pop culture and video games. Her debut in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 marks a personal milestone and acknowledges her global relevance. In the game, players will be able to perform tricks inspired by her fluid and creative style, which blends technical precision with a spontaneous approach to urban courses. Rayssa’s inclusion also underscores the growing representation of women in skateboarding and gaming, a trend gaining momentum in recent years.

Brazilian representation in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater

Brazil has long held a prominent place in the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise, and the new chapter continues this tradition. Bob Burnquist, a legend in vertical skateboarding and one of the sport’s most celebrated names in Brazil, has been part of the game since its first edition in 1999. Known for his aggressive and innovative style, he remains one of the series’ most popular characters, appearing in nearly every version. His return in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 keeps the legacy of Brazilian pioneers in the sport alive.

Another notable Brazilian who has featured in the franchise is Letícia Bufoni, who joined the roster in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2, released in 2020. Bufoni, renowned for her street skills and off-ramp influence, brought further visibility to Brazilian skateboarding in the gaming world. With Rayssa Leal now in the lineup, this trio of Brazilian skaters reinforces the country’s significance in the global skateboarding scene, which continues to thrive in both competitions and digital culture.

The inclusion of these athletes also mirrors Brazil’s broader impact on skateboarding worldwide. Over the past decade, Brazil has emerged as a powerhouse in the sport, with skaters dominating international events and inspiring new talent. Featuring Rayssa, Bob, and others in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 acknowledges this legacy and provides a platform to showcase Brazilian skateboarding to an even wider audience.

What to expect from Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4

Following a five-year gap, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 arrives with high expectations. The game aims to recapture the essence of the early 2000s classics, complete with memorable soundtracks, updated graphics, and refined gameplay. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh faces like Rayssa Leal adds a modern twist, bridging the franchise with the present-day skateboarding scene. Set to launch on July 11, fans can look forward to exploring iconic courses and crafting their own trick combinations.

Among the announced updates are improvements to gameplay mechanics and expanded multiplayer modes. The game will also feature some of the most beloved courses from the original titles, such as Los Angeles and Airport, alongside new environments reflecting contemporary skateboarding. For Brazilian players, the presence of Rayssa and Bob Burnquist offers extra motivation to dive into the game and test their digital skills with national icons.

Here are some confirmed features of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4:

• Availability across multiple platforms, including PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch.
• Remastered classic soundtracks with new tracks added.
• Online mode with weekly competitions and challenges.
• Enhanced customization options for characters and courses.

Release timeline and related events

The release of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is scheduled for July 11, but Brazilian fans will have other opportunities to engage with the skateboarding world in the coming months. Rayssa Leal, for instance, is confirmed to participate in the STU Pro Tour in Porto Alegre, an event that brings together some of the world’s best skaters. The competition offers a chance to see her in action before her digital debut in the game.

Moreover, Brazil has been investing in skateboarding infrastructure, with new facilities popping up across the country. One example is the Arena Pantanal complex, which recently unveiled a skatepark spanning over 800 square meters, designed for both beginners and professionals. Such spaces not only encourage the sport’s growth but also foster environments where new talents like Rayssa can emerge.

As the game’s release approaches, promotional events are expected to roll out, potentially including playable demos at gaming expos and skateboarding competitions. For fans of both the sport and video games, the coming months promise to be packed with exciting developments, with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 serving as a highlight in celebrating skateboarding culture.

Cultural impact of skateboarding in video games

Skateboarding has always shared a close bond with video games, and the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series has played a pivotal role in this intersection. Since its debut in 1999, the franchise has not only popularized the sport among gamers but also shaped public perceptions of skateboarding as both an artistic and competitive pursuit. Now, with Rayssa Leal in the roster, the game reinforces its relevance by bridging different generations of skaters and players.

For many young Brazilians, seeing an athlete like Rayssa in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 can serve as a source of inspiration. Skateboarding, once considered a fringe activity, now holds a prominent place in sports and culture, with figures like her demonstrating its accessibility and universality. Furthermore, the inclusion of Brazilian skaters strengthens national identity within a global franchise, resonating deeply with local fans.

With the launch on the horizon, the anticipation is that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 will not only honor the series’ past but also pave the way for the future of skateboarding in video games. Featuring new talents like Rayssa Leal is a step in that direction, ensuring the game remains a true reflection of the sport that has captivated players worldwide.