While basic grabs and spins are easy to learn, mastering advanced trick techniques is what separates the good riders from the legends. These techniques allow for higher scores, faster Tricky meter generation, and more impressive aerial displays.
Advanced Trick Tips:
- Tweak Grabs: While holding a grab button, use the Circle button (PS2) to 'tweak' your grab. This adds style points and slightly increases your score. Experiment with different grab buttons and Circle button presses for varied tweaks.
- Spin/Flip Combos: Don't just do a single spin or flip. While in the air, hold the L2/R2 buttons to initiate spins or use the Left Analog Stick for flips, and combine them with grabs. The more rotations and grabs you can fit into one jump, the higher your score.
- Grind Combos: Chain multiple grinds together by jumping from one rail to another. You can also jump off a rail, perform a quick air trick, and land on another rail to extend your combo.
- Uber Trick Chaining: The most crucial advanced trick. After landing an Uber Trick, your Tricky meter gets a massive boost. Immediately look for the next jump to perform another Uber Trick. The goal is to keep your Tricky meter full and continuously perform Uber Tricks.
- Landing Precision: Aim for perfect landings (board flat, facing downhill) to get a 'Perfect Landing' bonus and a small speed burst. This is vital for maintaining momentum and maximizing trick scores.
- Revert Landings: If you land facing backward, quickly press the Left Analog Stick forward to 'revert' and continue riding without bailing. This saves you from losing your combo and momentum.
Practice these techniques in Freeride mode to integrate them seamlessly into your runs. The more complex and varied your tricks, the higher your scores will be.