Sports franchises have long enlisted a good figurehead to give them that extra appeal. Tiger Woods has helped EA's popular golf series, while John Madden is synonymous with its key NFL franchise. But few others can rival the mainstream popularity that Tony Hawk's involvement in Activision's skating series has leveraged over the years.

　　The latest instalment, titled Tony Hawk's Proving Ground and announced today by the North American publisher, will set your character on one of several paths, based on the choices you make within the game. One of these variables will be the choice of skating style implemented by the player at the various courses, which include Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC.

　　The game will also feature video editing tools, including additional visual effects, enabling players to create their own movies from the game. The customisable Skate Lounge will provide players with the opportunity to skate alongside others online.

　　Tony Hawk's Proving Ground will be released for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Wii, and DS, and is due to be in the shops "this fall."